2026 budget aims to consolidate Tinubu’s reform gains – Minister

The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, says the 2026 Federal Government budget is designed to consolidate the achievements of President Bola Tinubu’s reform agenda, which he says is already producing positive results.

Idris stated this in an op-ed titled “A Defining Moment for Nigeria: Why Staying the Course Matters,” published in national newspapers on Monday.

The statement was highlighted by Rabiu Ibrahim, the Minister’s Special Assistant on Media.

Describing the 2026 appropriation as strategic, Idris said: “Our Budget of Consolidation, Renewed Resilience and Shared Prosperity is critical.

It is a commitment to double down on what is working, solidify gains, and ensure that shared prosperity becomes a reality for more Nigerians, faster.”

He noted that the first 31 months of the Tinubu administration involved difficult but necessary reforms to end economic stagnation and lay the foundation for sustainable growth.

Early signs of progress, he said, include expanding business activity, improved investor confidence, easing inflation, and stronger external reserves.

“These are not just numbers; they are the foundation for lasting improvement in Nigerians’ daily lives,” Idris added.

Highlighting government interventions, Idris pointed to initiatives such as the Nigerian Education Loan Fund, the Presidential Compressed Natural Gas programme to reduce transport costs, youth-focused projects like the Labour Employment and Empowerment Programme, the Jubilee Fellows Programme, and the 3 Million Technical Talent initiative.

He also referenced efforts to tackle food insecurity through the recapitalisation of the Bank of Agriculture and expanded agricultural mechanisation.

On infrastructure, he mentioned major projects including the Coastal Highway, Sokoto–Badagry Expressway, Ajaokuta–Kaduna–Kano Gas Pipeline, and new rail developments aimed at improving connectivity and lowering costs.

Idris also highlighted security measures, noting increased recruitment, better equipment, international cooperation, and the recent rescue of abducted students in Kebbi and Niger states.

Acknowledging public fatigue, the minister urged Nigerians to stay engaged, protect public assets, and reject misinformation.