Information and National Orientation Minister Mohammed Idris has said this year’s budget was planned to solidify the gains of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s reforms.
Idris maintained that the various reforms are already yielding positive results.
The minister stated this yesterday in an op-ed published in newspapers, titled: “A Defining Moment for Nigeria: Why Staying the Course Matters.”
Idris said: “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.”
The minister noted that the last 31 months have been difficult but necessary for a positive change, beginning with key economic decisions taken to end long-standing stagnation and build a more stable future.
He said signs of progress were beginning to emerge, with business activity expanding, investor confidence improving, inflation easing, and Nigeria’s external reserves strengthening. “These are not just numbers,” the Minister said. “They are the foundation for lasting improvement in the daily lives of Nigerians,” Idris said.
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.
Idris highlighted several government 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.
The minister noted ongoing efforts to tackle food insecurity through the recapitalisation of the Bank of Agriculture and expanded mechanisation.
Examining the state of 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.
Idris announced the government was strengthening recruitment, equipment, and international cooperation. He cited the recent rescue of abducted students in Kebbi and Niger States as evidence of renewed focus and commitment.
The minister acknowledged the fatigue many Nigerians feel and assured them that the government remained committed to accelerating the delivery of relief through ongoing reforms. He urged Nigerians to see nation-building as a shared responsibility, appealing to the citizens to engage constructively, protect public assets, and reject misinformation.
He praised President Tinubu for his calm and decisive leadership, stressing that recent engagements with the United States helped strengthen bilateral relations and Nigeria’s anti-insurgency efforts.
As the new year begins, the minister urged Nigerians to stay focused on the future. “We have laid a new foundation,” he said. “Now, we must build the house together.”
Follow the OSUNDOTLIFE channel on WhatsAppKindly share this story | All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from OSUNDOTLIFE.
Contact: editor@osun.life
WhatsApp: 📲 +2348092333666