The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has said the 2026 Federal Government budget is structured to strengthen and build on the gains of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s ongoing reform programme, which he said is beginning to show positive outcomes.
Idris stated this in an opinion article titled “A Defining Moment for Nigeria: Why Staying the Course Matters,” published in national newspapers on Monday. The piece was later referenced in a statement issued by his Special Assistant on Media, Rabiu Ibrahim.
He described the 2026 appropriation proposal as a carefully targeted fiscal plan, noting that the “Budget of Consolidation, Renewed Resilience and Shared Prosperity” is intended to reinforce policies already delivering results while accelerating inclusive growth across the country.
According to the minister, the Tinubu administration’s first 31 months have been marked by tough but unavoidable decisions designed to break long-standing cycles of economic stagnation and position Nigeria for sustainable development.
Idris said early signs of progress are becoming evident, pointing to increased business activity, rising investor confidence, moderation in inflationary pressures and improvements in external reserves. He stressed that these indicators go beyond statistics, arguing that they represent the groundwork for lasting improvements in the everyday lives of Nigerians.
The minister also underscored the need for open communication and trust between the government and citizens, pledging continued transparency in explaining policies, challenges and achievements.
He highlighted several initiatives aimed at improving living standards, including the Nigerian Education Loan Fund, the Presidential Compressed Natural Gas programme designed to cut transportation costs, and youth-centred schemes such as the Labour Employment and Empowerment Programme, the Jubilee Fellows Programme and the 3 Million Technical Talent initiative.
On food security, Idris referenced efforts to strengthen agricultural productivity through the recapitalisation of the Bank of Agriculture and expanded mechanisation programmes.
He also drew attention to major infrastructure projects, including the Coastal Highway, the Sokoto–Badagry Expressway, the Ajaokuta–Kaduna–Kano Gas Pipeline and new rail developments, which he said are expected to boost national connectivity and reduce logistics costs.
Addressing security concerns, the minister said the Federal Government is enhancing recruitment, equipment and international collaboration among security agencies, citing the recent rescue of abducted students in Kebbi and Niger states as evidence of progress.
While acknowledging public weariness over reforms, Idris urged Nigerians to remain engaged, safeguard public assets and resist misinformation, stressing that sustained collective effort is essential to achieving long-term national stability and growth.
