2026 Budget Designed to Strengthen Tinubu’s Reform Agenda — Information Minister

By Micheal Chukwuebuka

The Minister of Information and National Orientation Mohammed Idris. Says 2026 budget is a well-planned instrument to solidify the gains of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s reform agenda.

According to the Minister, the last 31 months have been a period of difficult but necessary change, beginning with key economic decisions taken to end long-standing stagnation and build a more stable future.

The Minister’s Special Assistant Media, Rabiu Ibrahim noted that the Minister acknowledged that the signs of progress are beginning to emerge, with business activity expanding, investor confidence improving, inflation easing, and Nigeria’s external reserves strengthening.

Beyond economic indicators, the Minister emphasised the importance of trust and clear communication between the government and its citizens. He reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring that Nigerians are kept informed about government actions, challenges and progress.

The Minister highlighted several interventions designed to directly impact lives, including the student loan programme (NELFUND), the Presidential CNG initiative to reduce transport costs, and youth-focused programmes such as LEEP, the Jubilee Fellows Programme, and the 3MTT initiative. He also noted ongoing efforts to tackle food insecurity through the recapitalisation of the Bank of Agriculture and expanded mechanisation.

On infrastructure, he highlighted major projects such as the Coastal Highway, the Sokoto–Badagry Expressway, the AKK Gas Pipeline, and new rail developments aimed at reducing costs and enhancing national connectivity.

Addressing security, the Minister said the government is strengthening recruitment, equipment, and international cooperation. He cited the recent rescue of abducted students in Kebbi and Niger States as evidence of renewed focus in tackling insecurity.

The Minister reiterated that the Federal Ministry of Information and National Orientation will remain open, accountable, and consistent in communicating government policies and actions, as he wished all Nigerians a peaceful and productive year ahead.