The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, has described the 2026 budget as a carefully crafted instrument to consolidate the achievements of President Bola Tinubu’s reform agenda.

In a statement issued by his Special Assistant on Media, Malam Rabiu Ibrahim, Idris said the budget, themed “Budget of Consolidation, Renewed Resilience and Shared Prosperity”, aims to deepen reforms, ensure wider benefits for Nigerians, and accelerate national development.

“The last 31 months have involved difficult but necessary reforms to end long-standing economic stagnation. Signs of progress are evident: business activity is expanding, investor confidence is rising, inflation is easing, and Nigeria’s external reserves are strengthening,” the minister said, adding that these gains form the foundation for improved daily lives of Nigerians.

Idris highlighted key interventions designed to directly impact citizens, including the student loan programme (NELFUND), the Presidential CNG initiative, youth-focused schemes such as LEEP, Jubilee Fellows, and the 3MTT initiative, as well as efforts to address food insecurity through the recapitalisation of the Bank of Agriculture and increased mechanisation.

On infrastructure, he cited projects such as the Coastal Highway, Sokoto–Badagry Motorway, AKK Gas Pipeline, and new rail developments aimed at improving connectivity and reducing costs. On security, Idris pointed to enhanced recruitment, equipment, international cooperation, and the recent successful rescue of abducted students in Kebbi and Niger States.

The minister called on Nigerians to participate actively in nation-building, protect public assets, and reject misinformation, praising Tinubu’s leadership and his efforts to strengthen international relations and national security.

“As the new year begins, we urge Nigerians to stay focused on the future. A new foundation has been laid; now we must build together,” he said, reaffirming his ministry’s commitment to transparency and consistent communication of government policies.