The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has said that the 2026 Federal Government budget is designed to consolidate the successes of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s reform agenda, which he described as already producing tangible results.
Idris made the remarks in an op-ed titled “A Defining Moment for Nigeria: Why Staying the Course Matters”, published in national newspapers on Monday. His comments were further highlighted in a statement issued by Rabiu Ibrahim, Special Assistant (Media) to the Minister.
Describing the 2026 appropriation as strategic, Idris said, “Our ‘Budget of Consolidation, Renewed Resilience and Shared Prosperity’ is essential. It reflects a commitment to build on what is working, secure our achievements, and ensure that shared prosperity reaches more Nigerians, faster.”
He noted that the first 31 months of the Tinubu administration have involved challenging but necessary reforms to end long-standing economic stagnation and lay the groundwork for sustainable growth. Early indicators of progress, he said, include expanded business activity, rising investor confidence, easing inflation, and strengthened external reserves.
“These figures are more than statistics. They represent the foundation for real improvements in the lives of Nigerians,” Idris added.
The minister also highlighted programmes aimed at improving livelihoods, such as the Nigerian Education Loan Fund, the Presidential Compressed Natural Gas initiative, and youth-focused initiatives including the Labour Employment and Empowerment Programme, the Jubilee Fellows Programme, and the 3 Million Technical Talent initiative.
Efforts to combat food insecurity, he said, include recapitalising the Bank of Agriculture and expanding agricultural mechanisation. Key infrastructure projects like the Coastal Highway, Sokoto–Badagry Expressway, Ajaokuta–Kaduna–Kano Gas Pipeline, and new rail lines are intended to improve connectivity and reduce costs.
On security, Idris said the government is enhancing recruitment, supplying equipment, and fostering international cooperation, citing the recent rescue of abducted students in Kebbi and Niger states. He urged Nigerians to stay engaged, safeguard public assets, and reject misinformation.
