Nigeria enters 2026 at a defining moment. Minister Mohammed Idris highlights reforms, economic stability, infrastructure, and security investments, urging citizens to stay the course as the “Budget of Consolidation, Renewed Resilience and Shared Prosperity” drives shared progress.

Defining Moment for Nigeria: Why Staying the Course Matters

As Nigeria steps into a new year, the questions on the minds of citizens are urgent and familiar: the price of food, the safety of our communities, and the direction of our nation. The Ministry of Information and National Orientation has a duty to address these concerns directly, with clarity and respect for every Nigerian carrying the weight of this moment.

Bold Reforms for Sustainable Prosperity

The past thirty‑one months have been marked by difficult but necessary reforms. Decisions on subsidies and exchange rates were designed to break cycles of stagnation and lay the foundation for sustainable prosperity. While the path was never promised to be easy, it was promised to be purposeful and honest.

Signs of Stability Emerging

Today, the first signs of stability are visible. December 2025 marked the thirteenth consecutive month of business expansion. Multinational firms are reassessing Nigeria with renewed interest. GDP is growing, inflation is declining, and external reserves are strengthening—figures that represent the groundwork for lasting improvements in everyday life.

Direct Interventions That Touch Lives

Building on macroeconomic stability, the government has prioritized interventions that directly impact citizens:

– NELFUND student loans opening doors for education.

– Presidential CNG initiative reducing transport costs.

– LEEP, Jubilee Fellows, and 3MTT programmes equipping youth with skills and opportunities.

– Agricultural recapitalisation and mechanisation tackling food insecurity at its root.

Infrastructure and Security Investments

Ambitious infrastructure projects—the Coastal Highway, Sokoto‑Badagry Expressway, AKK Gas Pipeline, and new rail lines—are being advanced to unite the economy and reduce geographic costs.

In security, a new architecture is being rolled out with investments in recruitment, equipment, and international cooperation. The recent rescue of abducted students in Kebbi and Niger states underscores this relentless focus on safety.

Listening to Citizens, Accelerating Relief

The government acknowledges the fatigue that comes with endurance the anxiety over prices, the desire for quicker results. This administration hears these concerns and is committed to accelerating reforms so that relief reaches more Nigerians, faster.

The 2026 Budget of Consolidation

The “Budget of Consolidation, Renewed Resilience and Shared Prosperity” is designed to double down on what is working, solidify gains, and ensure prosperity becomes a lived reality for citizens.

Nation‑Building as a Covenant

Nation‑building requires a covenant: government commits to clarity, integrity, and accountability, while citizens commit to civic responsibility—paying taxes, protecting public goods, engaging constructively, and rejecting disinformation. Together, this covenant will secure Nigeria’s shared future.

This office, under my watch, will remain accountable and purposeful. The Ministry of Information and National Orientation (@FMINONigeria) is committed to being a responsible, accessible, and truthful channel between government and the people. We will explain, we will defend, we will listen, and we will report. Nigerians will continually hear a clear voice of accountability for the government’s agenda.

Tinubunomics Explained: Debunking Nigeria’s Arithmetic of Illusion

President Tinubu’s Calm and Decisive Leadership

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu (@officialABAT, GCFR) has never been one to be fazed by challenges. His leadership style is calm, decisive, and focused on turning difficulties into opportunities for efficiency and progress.

Recent engagements with the United States exemplify this approach. What began as a tense period was transformed into an opportunity to deepen bilateral relations and strengthen Nigeria’s anti‑insurgency efforts.

Focused on the Future

While acknowledging the gains achieved, this administration is firmly focused on the future. Every moment is an opportunity to double down on reforms, ensuring that tomorrow improves on today. The benefits of reform must be fully realized, and this requires persistence and collective resolve.

Patience and Shared Resolve

The journey ahead demands patience and unity. The politics of division and noise will persist, but the hard work of building a Nigeria that works for all must prevail. A new foundation has been laid—now, together, we must build the house.

A Message of Hope

As we step into the new year, I wish every Nigerian peace, productivity, and renewed confidence in the path we are building together.

Tanimu Yakubu, DG of Nigeria’s Budget Office, explains why viral critiques of Tinubunomics are based on “arithmetic illusions,” stressing the need to distinguish revenue, borrowing, and federation receipts from federal budget realities.

Tinubunomics Explained: Debunking Nigeria’s Arithmetic of Illusion

Nigeria’s economic debate has been flooded with dramatic headline numbers—₦150 trillion, ₦170 trillion, ₦180 trillion—often presented as evidence of mismanagement. But according to Tanimu Yakubu, Director‑General of the Budget Office of the Federation, these figures are built on arithmetic illusions, not fiscal reality.

The Illusion of Big Numbers

Critics frequently lump together tax collections, oil receipts, customs revenues, borrowing, and “subsidy savings” to create inflated totals. Borrowing is treated as income, federation‑wide collections are presented as federal cash, and subsidy reforms are portrayed as instant windfalls. The result: large numbers that mislead rather than inform.

What the Numbers Really Mean

– Revenue ≠ Cash: Not all collections are available for federal spending.

– Borrowing ≠ Income: Loans create obligations, not free money.

– Federation Receipts ≠ Federal Budget: Revenues are shared and earmarked, not fully retained by the Federal Government.

– Subsidy Reform ≠ Vault of Cash: It closes fiscal leaks gradually, not overnight.

Debt and Exchange Rate Realities

Much of Nigeria’s rising debt stock reflects exchange‑rate revaluation of existing obligations, not fresh borrowing. Treating this accounting adjustment as new debt is a category error.

Tinubu Orders Security Overhaul: ‘Enough is Enough,’ President Tells NSA, Service Chiefs

The Logic of Tinubunomics

Tinubunomics is not about instant abundance. It is a macro‑fiscal reset designed to restore credibility, strengthen revenue administration, and re‑price the public balance sheet while protecting vulnerable citizens.

Accountability Through Audit Logic

True accountability requires examining retained federal revenue, separating financing from income, tracking expenditure across debt service, personnel, capital, and transfers, and then measuring outputs—roads, power, rail, schools, and clinics. Anything else is theatre.

The Nigerian Army rescued 31 kidnapped victims and arrested 17 suspects across Zamfara, Delta, Kogi, Kaduna, Nasarawa, and Taraba States, reaffirming its commitment to protecting lives and property through sustained offensive operations.

Nigerian Army Offensive Rescues 31 Kidnap Victims, Arrests 17 Suspects

The Nigerian Army has announced major operational successes across multiple states in the past 24 hours, rescuing 31 kidnapped victims, arresting 17 criminal suspects, and recovering weapons and ammunition. Sustained pressure from troops forced criminal elements to flee on contact, while soldiers consolidated gains and ensured the safety of civilians.

Zamfara State: 25 Victims Freed

Troops of 1 Brigade Combat Team 5 at FOB Moriki, working alongside local hunters, responded to a distress call in Kadage Village, Maradun LGA. On sighting the troops, terrorists abandoned 25 kidnapped victims and fled. All rescued persons were safely reunited with their families in Moriki Town.

Delta State: Cultists and Drug Peddlers Arrested

Acting on intelligence, troops of 63 Brigade arrested a suspected cultist/kidnapper and 11 accomplices in Ezuokwu Community, Oshimili North LGA. Subsequent raids in Ite-Ego Community led to the arrest of a herbalist and the recovery of two pump-action guns and five cartridges. A suspected drug peddler was also apprehended with crystal meth, smoking pipes, and Indian hemp. All suspects remain in military custody.

Nigerian Army Refutes Allegations of Non-Payment and Extortion in Ogun State

Kogi State: Patrols Rescue Victims and Secure Routes

Troops of 12 Brigade conducted fighting patrols from Obajana and Kabba Patrol Bases to Ankomi Village and Adankolo, Lokoja LGA, rescuing five kidnapped victims from abandoned settlements. During exploitation, two decomposed bodies were discovered. Earlier, on December 31, 2025, the same Brigade responded to a road blockage along Ayere–Kabba Road, rescuing an injured driver and securing the main supply route with aggressive patrols.

Kaduna State: Suspect Apprehended

Troops of Sector 5, Operation ENDURING PEACE, acting on credible intelligence, apprehended a suspected kidnapper at Jagindi Kagom Village, Jema’a LGA. The suspect is currently in custody for further investigation.

Nasarawa State: Two Suspects Arrested

Troops of Sector 2, Operation WHIRL STROKE, arrested two suspected kidnappers hiding around Kadarko, Keana LGA. The suspects were handed over to the Nigerian Police, Keana Division, for prosecution.

Taraba State: Victim Rescued

Troops of Sector 3, Operation WHIRL STROKE, responded to a kidnapping incident in Abong, Kurmi LGA, successfully rescuing one victim who has since been reunited with his family.

Army Reaffirms Commitment

The Nigerian Army reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to protecting lives and property nationwide. Through timely intelligence, joint community efforts, and sustained offensive operations, troops continue to deny criminals freedom of action. Citizens are urged to support security forces with credible information to strengthen ongoing efforts.

INEC has refuted claims of releasing the 2027 election timetable, stressing that no schedule has been published yet. The Commission assures Nigerians that the official timetable will be released in line with the Electoral Act, 2022, through verified channels

INEC Refutes Reports of 2027 Election Timetable Release

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has categorically denied claims circulating in some quarters that it has released the timetable and schedule of activities for the 2027 General Election.

In a statement issued on January 2, 2026, INEC described the reports as false and misleading, stressing that no timetable has been published.

Inec offices in Fct (Abuja)

INEC Operates Within Legal Framework

INEC reiterated that it operates strictly within the provisions of the law. Section 28(1) of the Electoral Act, 2022, clearly states that the Commission shall publish a Notice of Election not later than 360 days before the date appointed for a general election. Any timetable issued outside this statutory framework, the Commission emphasized, cannot emanate from INEC.

Assurance to Nigerians

The Commission assured Nigerians that the official timetable and schedule of activities for the 2027 General Election will be released in due course, in full compliance with the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (1999, as amended) and the Electoral Act, 2022.

INEC further noted that when the timetable is ready, it will be communicated through its established and verified channels to ensure accuracy and transparency.

Call to Disregard Fake Reports

INEC urged the public and the media to disregard the circulating fake reports and rely solely on information from its official platforms for credible updates.

The statement was signed by Adedayo Oketola, CPS/Media Adviser to the INEC Chairman.

The Nigerian Army’s 35 Artillery Brigade has dismissed viral allegations of non-payment of allowances and extortion in Ogun State, reaffirming its commitment to professionalism, transparency, and troop welfare under Operation MESA.

Nigerian Army Refutes Allegations of Non-Payment and Extortion in Ogun State

The Headquarters of the 35 Artillery Brigade, Abeokuta, has firmly dismissed allegations circulating in a viral social media video accusing senior officers of denying soldiers their allowances and engaging in extortion along border routes.

The video, authored by one Abdul, made claims against Brigadier General Godwin Nwamba, Commander of the 35 Artillery Brigade; Lieutenant Colonel Innocent Matthew, Commanding Officer of the 351 Artillery Regiment; and Major Isaac Ezechukwu, Brigade Operations Officer. The Army has described these allegations as false, malicious, and deliberately misleading.

Soldiers’ Allowances Under Operation MESA

Clarifying the issue of allowances, the Brigade explained that soldiers deployed on company duties in Ogun State operate under Operation MESA, a state-sponsored multi-agency security initiative.

Before Brigadier General Nwamba assumed command in January 2025, personnel received ₦45,000 monthly. In line with the Chief of Army Staff’s philosophy of sound administration and troop welfare, the Brigade Commander approved an upward review to ₦60,000 per soldier monthly. This allowance, the Army stressed, is being duly paid by the state government.

Nigerian Army Officer Nabbed Selling Stolen Toyota Corolla in Abuja

Zero Tolerance for Extortion

On allegations of extortion along border routes, the Brigade categorically denied any misconduct. It emphasized that the Nigerian Army maintains zero tolerance for indiscipline and extortion, and no credible complaints have been recorded against its troops.

In compliance with directives from Defence and Army Headquarters, unnecessary checkpoints have been removed, leaving only relevant security agencies to inspect vehicles commuting the roads.

Malicious Claims by a Disgruntled Ex-Airman

The Army identified the individual behind the video as a disgruntled retired airman with a history of propaganda and attempts to discredit senior officers. His current actions, the Brigade noted, are aimed at attracting undue social media attention and misleading the public.

Commitment to Professionalism and Security

The 35 Artillery Brigade reaffirmed its commitment to professionalism, transparency, and the welfare of its personnel. It pledged continued collaboration with other security agencies and stakeholders in Ogun State to safeguard lives and property while upholding the highest standards of military ethics and discipline.

Nigeria enters 2026 with President Tinubu pledging further inflation reduction, FG closing a ₦590 billion power sector bond to settle GenCo debts, and the equities market posting its strongest gain in 18 years.

Nigeria’s Economic Outlook 2026: Inflation, Bonds, and Market Gains

As Nigeria steps into 2026, the Federal Government has outlined bold economic priorities aimed at strengthening resilience, reducing inflation, and consolidating gains from 2025. From President Tinubu’s pledges to the closure of a landmark power sector bond, the year ahead promises significant reforms and opportunities for growth.

President Tinubu’s Inflation Reduction Pledge

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has assured Nigerians that tackling inflation remains a top priority in 2026. He emphasized that every household should feel the impact of reduced prices, with policies designed to ease the cost of living and stabilize purchasing power.

Building a Resilient and Inclusive Economy

Beyond inflation, President Tinubu highlighted his administration’s focus on consolidating economic gains and building a resilient, inclusive economy. The goal is to ensure that growth translates into tangible benefits for citizens across all regions, fostering job creation, industrial expansion, and sustainable development.

EFCC Dismisses Bala Mohammed’s Allegations, Reaffirms Independence

FG Closes N590 Billion Power Sector Bond

In a major financial milestone, the Federal Government successfully closed a ₦590 billion Series 1 Power Sector Bond. The proceeds will be used to settle ₦4 trillion in legacy debts owed to Generation Companies (GenCos). This move is expected to stabilize the power sector, restore investor confidence, and improve electricity supply reliability.

Equities Market Records Strongest Performance in 18 Years

Nigeria’s equities market closed 2025 with an impressive 51.19% gain, marking its strongest performance in nearly two decades. Analysts attribute this surge to improved investor sentiment, reforms in key sectors, and renewed confidence in the government’s economic agenda. The momentum sets a positive tone for 2026, with expectations of continued growth and market expansion.

The EFCC has dismissed Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed’s claims of political persecution, stressing its independence and commitment to fighting corruption. The Commission reaffirmed that its investigations are non-partisan and guided strictly by law.

EFCC Dismisses Bala Mohammed’s Allegations, Reaffirms Independence

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has strongly refuted claims made by Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, alleging that the Commission is being used by political opponents, particularly the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, to persecute him and his aides.

In a statement, the EFCC described the governor’s accusations as “wild and far-fetched,” stressing that the Commission is an independent body established to combat economic and financial crimes. It emphasized that its operations are non-partisan and guided strictly by law, not political influence.

EFCC Reaffirms Non-Partisanship

The Commission condemned attempts to portray it as a tool of political interests, calling such claims mischievous and misleading. It noted that no political office holder has the authority to influence its investigations.

The EFCC further reminded Nigerians that Governor Mohammed was previously charged with money laundering in 2016, long before his election as governor. The case, it explained, remains on hold only because of the constitutional immunity attached to his current office.

Ongoing Investigations in Bauchi State

According to the EFCC, charges against some Bauchi State officials are already before the court, and the public can access these records to judge whether the cases stem from vendetta or from thorough investigations. The Commission clarified that Governor Mohammed’s name appears in the charges because of his role as the approving authority in Bauchi State.

EFCC Blasts Motivational Speaker for Charging $18,000 Mentorship Fee

Accountability Over Politics

The EFCC dismissed claims of persecution, particularly regarding terrorism financing, as baseless. It reiterated that its duty is to enforce existing laws and that failing to act on offences would amount to negligence.

The Commission also criticized the hypocrisy of politicians who cry foul when opposition figures are investigated but remain silent when members of the ruling party face similar charges. It pointed to a recent case where a senior ruling party member was arraigned for corruption without any claims of political persecution.

In conclusion, the EFCC urged Governor Bala Mohammed to concentrate on governing Bauchi State rather than making unfounded allegations. The Commission reaffirmed its commitment to “cleaning the financial space of the nation” in line with its constitutional mandate.

Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, Chief of Naval Staff, visited Operation HADIN KAI Headquarters in Maiduguri, urging stronger joint military operations to combat terrorism. His landmark visit highlighted the Navy’s role in securing Lake Chad waterways, restoring livelihoods, and fostering socio-economic growth in Borno State.

Naval Chief’s Landmark Visit to North East Theatre: Strengthening Joint Operations for National Security

In a powerful start to the new year, the Chief of Naval Staff (CNS), Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, paid a landmark visit to the Headquarters of the Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), in Maiduguri, Borno State, on January 1, 2026.

The visit underscored the Nigerian Navy’s unwavering commitment to enhancing synergy among the Armed Forces in the fight against terrorism and restoring peace in the North East.

Commending Troops and Renewing Commitment

Vice Admiral Abbas extended heartfelt New Year greetings to the troops, praising their courage, resilience, and sacrifices in safeguarding the nation. He conveyed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s appreciation for their operational successes and urged them to sustain the momentum in curbing terrorist activities.

The CNS emphasized the importance of jointness, noting that collaboration among the Armed Forces ensures rapid response to threats, strengthens national security, and enhances operational efficiency.

Securing Lake Chad and Reviving Livelihoods

Highlighting the Navy’s role in the Lake Chad region, Vice Admiral Abbas reaffirmed the service’s commitment to maintaining a strong presence on the waterways. He pointed to significant progress in reopening critical routes, enabling fishermen, farmers, traders, and transport operators to resume their livelihoods. Sustained naval patrols, he stressed, remain vital for protecting communities and supporting socio-economic revival.

Operational Briefings and Facility Inspections

The Theatre Commander, Major General Abdulsalam Abubakar, welcomed the CNS and briefed him on ongoing operations. He commended the Navy’s contributions in the Lake Chad Islands, noting that maritime dominance has been key to regional stability.

Vice Admiral Abbas also inspected facilities at the Naval Base Annex along Monguno Road, interacted with troops at the Naval Base Lake Chad Command in Baga, and conducted a riverine patrol to assess clearance efforts. The visit concluded with a morale-boosting New Year luncheon with troops at Fish Dam.

Lagos Building Collapse: Resident Recounts Chilling Escape From Popular Ojodu Berger Restaurant

Courtesy Call on Borno State Governor

During a courtesy call on Governor Babagana Umara Zulum, the CNS expressed gratitude for the state’s support and pledged continued collaboration to safeguard waterways and drive socio-economic growth. Governor Zulum commended the Navy’s achievements and encouraged intensified operations to maintain peace in the region.

A United Front for Peace and Security

The visit brought together senior military and naval officers, including the Deputy Theatre Commander, General Officer Commanding 7 Division, component commanders, and principal staff officers. It featured operational briefings, interactive sessions, and ceremonial exchanges all reinforcing the Armed Forces’ united front against terrorism.