FG unveils 2026 budget to solidify Tinubu's reform gains
The Federal Government has described the 2026 budget as a strategic instrument to consolidate the positive results from President Bola Tinubu's reform agenda. Information Minister Mohammed Idris, in an op-ed published Monday, January 5, said the "Budget of Consolidation, Renewed Resilience and Shared Prosperity" is designed to double down on working policies and accelerate shared prosperity for Nigerians.
Idris noted that after 31 months of difficult but necessary economic decisions, signs of progress are emerging. He cited expanding business activity, improving investor confidence, easing inflation, and strengthening external reserves as foundations for lasting improvement in daily lives.
The minister highlighted direct impact interventions including the student loan programme (NELFUND), Presidential CNG initiative to reduce transport costs, youth programmes like LEEP, Jubilee Fellows, and 3MTT. On infrastructure, he pointed to major projects: Coastal Highway, Sokoto-Badagry Expressway, AKK Gas Pipeline, and new rail developments.
Regarding security, Idris cited recent rescues of abducted students in Kebbi and Niger States as evidence of renewed commitment. He acknowledged citizen fatigue while urging collective nation-building and rejection of misinformation.
The budget prioritizes health personnel, according to related reports from state commissioners. With NASS giving speedy assent to executive requests, the government is pushing for rapid implementation of policies aimed at solidifying economic gains and improving national connectivity.