The Federal Government has assured Nigerians that the 2026 national budget, totaling ₦58.18 trillion, is designed to consolidate the gains of President Bola Tinubu’s reform agenda.
In an op-ed titled “A Defining Moment for Nigeria: Why Staying the Course Matters,” Minister of Information and National Orientation Mohammed Idris highlighted that the budget prioritizes security, infrastructure, health, and education, with key assumptions including a $64.85 oil benchmark, 1.84 million barrels per day, and a ₦1,400 exchange rate.
Major allocations include ₦5.41 trillion for defense, ₦3.56 trillion for infrastructure, ₦3.52 trillion for education, and ₦2.48 trillion for health. Idris noted that early signs of progress are evident, with business activity expanding, inflation easing, and external reserves strengthening.
The Minister also highlighted interventions like the student loan programme (NELFUND), Presidential CNG initiative, and youth-focused programmes such as LEEP, Jubilee Fellows, and 3MTT. Major infrastructure projects like the Coastal Highway, Sokoto–Badagry Expressway, AKK Gas Pipeline, and new rail developments aim to improve connectivity and reduce costs.
On security, Idris cited enhanced recruitment, equipment, and international cooperation, pointing to the recent rescue of abducted students in Kebbi and Niger states. He urged Nigerians to view nation-building as a shared responsibility, praising President Tinubu’s leadership and reaffirming the ministry’s commitment to transparency.
