Nigeria’s journey toward economic recovery, social inclusion, and national renewal has taken a decisive turn under the leadership of Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
His administration has pursued bold, sometimes difficult reforms with a clear focus on long-term stability rather than short-term political comfort. From economic restructuring to education, infrastructure, security, and national pride, the record presents a compelling case for continuity in 2027.
President Tinubu took the courageous step of removing fuel subsidy and unifying exchange rates—two long-standing distortions in Nigeria’s economy. These reforms have laid the foundation for long-term economic stability by eliminating inefficiencies, restoring fiscal transparency, and attracting genuine local and foreign investment.
Government revenues surged significantly, doubling in some periods and reaching over ₦31.9 trillion in 2024. This expansion has enabled increased spending on infrastructure and social programmes without excessive borrowing. At the same time, the fiscal deficit dropped from 5.4% of GDP in 2023 to about 3.0% in 2024, promoting fiscal discipline and reducing the debt burden on future generations.
Foreign reserves also recorded a dramatic rise—from roughly $4 billion in 2023 to over $23 billion by late 2024, with some reports indicating figures as high as $46 billion. Stronger reserves have improved confidence in the naira and enhanced Nigeria’s ability to withstand external economic shocks.
Trade surpluses achieved over consecutive quarters further strengthened the balance of payments and supported currency stability.
Non-oil exports expanded to nearly 48% of total exports, signaling a decisive move away from over-reliance on oil.
This diversification has increased resilience and positioned Nigeria for sustainable growth. Investor confidence followed suit, with the Nigerian Stock Exchange gaining around 48% in 2025, reflecting renewed faith in the economy and wealth creation for citizens.
Credit ratings upgrades and increased foreign direct investment—particularly in the digital economy—have reduced borrowing costs and fueled job-creating ventures. With projected GDP growth exceeding 4% annually, the economy is on a trajectory that promises expanded opportunities, higher incomes, and improved living standards.
Recognizing education as the bedrock of national development, the Tinubu- led administration launched the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND), benefiting hundreds of thousands of students through tuition and upkeep support. By removing financial barriers to higher education, the program is building a skilled and competitive workforce.
More than 900,000 Nigerians have received presidential grants and loans for entrepreneurship and skills development, empowering youth, supporting small businesses, and reducing unemployment. A new ₦70,000 national minimum wage has also improved workers’ purchasing power, stimulating economic activity and easing cost-of-living pressures.
In the education sector, ₦80 billion was allocated to upgrade infrastructure in 100 federal unity schools, improving learning environments and strengthening national unity. All 47 federal unity secondary schools were reopened after temporary closures due to insecurity, ensuring uninterrupted access to education.
Special attention has been given to vulnerable children, with the establishment of 119 learning centers nationwide, approval of a new National Policy on Almajiri Education, and the re-establishment of 157 model almajiri schools have begun reintegrating millions of out-of-school children into formal education. With new leadership appointed for the National Commission for Almajiri and Out-of-School Children Education and international support for reforms, these initiatives address the root causes of exclusion and social vulnerability.
The Tinubu administration has prioritized infrastructure as a catalyst for growth. Major highway projects—including the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Road, Sokoto-Badagry Superhighway, Abuja-Kaduna-Kano Road, and Lagos-Ibadan Expressway—are transforming connectivity, reducing travel time, and boosting trade. Over ₦2 trillion has been invested in road infrastructure, creating jobs and supporting long-term economic expansion.
Ports have been modernized, with improvements at Tin Can Island and integration with the Lekki Deep Sea Port, alongside expanded rail networks. These upgrades have improved logistics efficiency, reduced import costs, and enhanced export competitiveness.
The signing of the Electricity Act 2023 marked a turning point in Nigeria’s power sector by decentralizing generation and encouraging private investment. Reliable electricity is essential for industrial growth, small businesses, and household well-being.
In housing, the administration launched diaspora mortgage schemes offering low-interest loans of up to ₦50 million and unveiled a nationwide housing platform covering all 36 states and the FCT. Through the Renewed Hope Housing Programme, large-scale construction has expanded housing supply, including the groundbreaking project for 3,500 units in Renewed Hope City, Abuja—creating jobs and delivering modern living spaces.
Improved security has been a major focus. Enhanced military operations have led to the elimination of over 13,500 terrorists, restoring peace in troubled regions and enabling farming, commerce, and daily life to resume safely.
Cash transfers and targeted subsidies have provided direct relief to vulnerable groups, alleviating poverty and improving quality of life for millions.
President Tinubu’s administration has also invested in national pride and unity. Outstanding performances by Nigeria’s women’s sports teams were generously rewarded. Following their 10th WAFCON title in 2025, Super Falcons players received $100,000 equivalent each, a three-bedroom apartment, and national honours (OON), while the technical crew received $50,000, housing, and honours. Similarly, D’Tigress players, after their fifth consecutive AfroBasket title in 2025, were rewarded with $100,000 each, apartments, and honours, with coaches also recognized.
These rewards have inspired youth—especially girls—promoted women’s sports, and strengthened national unity through shared success.
On governance and service delivery, digital identity enrollment expanded to over 126 million Nigerians in the NIMC database, improving efficiency, reducing fraud, and enabling targeted welfare programs. The re-adoption of the old national anthem further reinforced cultural heritage, patriotism, and historical continuity.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s record reflects decisive leadership, structural reforms, and inclusive policies aimed at securing Nigeria’s future. By stabilizing the economy, investing in people, rebuilding infrastructure, strengthening security, and restoring national pride, his administration has set Nigeria on a path of sustainable growth and renewal. For voters looking toward 2027, continuity under Tinubu represents not just experience, but a clear vision for a stronger, more resilient Nigeria.
•Allison Abanum writes from Orogun, Delta State.
