Information minister Mohammed Idris says the 2026 budget is a well-planned instrument to solidify the gains of President Bola Tinubu’s reform agenda, already yielding positive results.

“Our ‘Budget of Consolidation, Renewed Resilience and Shared Prosperity’ is critical. It is a commitment to double down on what is working, to solidify gains, and to ensure that the shared prosperity we speak of becomes a lived reality for more Nigerians, faster,” Mr Idris said in a statement on Tuesday.

According to the minister, the last 31 months have been a period of difficult but necessary change, beginning with key economic decisions aimed at ending long-standing stagnation and building a more stable future.

He noted that signs of progress are emerging, with business activity expanding, investor confidence improving, inflation easing, and Nigeria’s external reserves strengthening.

“These are not just numbers. They are the foundation for lasting improvement in the daily lives of Nigerians,” Mr Idris explained.

Beyond economic indicators, the minister restated the importance of trust and clear communication between the government and its citizens. He reaffirmed the federal government’s commitment to keeping Nigerians informed about government actions, challenges, and progress.

The minister highlighted several interventions designed to directly impact lives, including the student loan programme and the presidential CNG initiative to reduce transport costs.

Mr Idris added that others are the youth-focused programmes such as LEEP, the Jubilee Fellows Programme, and the 3MTT initiative. He also noted the ongoing efforts to tackle food insecurity through the recapitalisation of the Bank of Agriculture and expanded mechanisation.

On infrastructure, Idris 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 as evidence of renewed focus and commitment.

According to him, the government is committed to accelerating relief delivery through ongoing reforms.

He urged Nigerians to see nation-building as a shared responsibility, urging citizens to engage constructively, protect public assets, and reject misinformation.

Mr Idris praised the president for his decisive leadership, noting that recent engagements with the United States helped strengthen bilateral relations and Nigeria’s anti-insurgency efforts.

“As the new year begins, I urge Nigerians to stay focused on the future. We have laid a new foundation. Now, we must build the house together,” the minister stated.

(NAN)