By mercy Peter
The Federal Government has highlighted sweeping reforms across key sectors and reaffirmed its commitment to transparency and international collaboration during an interactive session with foreign media organisations in Abuja on Thursday.
Speaking at the event, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, outlined what he described as Nigeria’s most far-reaching reform programme in decades under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
“We are embarking on the most comprehensive set of structural reforms in decades,” Idris said, stressing that the administration’s efforts span critical sectors including the economy, security, taxation, education, infrastructure, and social welfare.
He pointed to measurable progress, noting that Nigeria’s real Gross Domestic Product (GDP) grew by 3.87 per cent in 2025—marking a significant turnaround from years of sluggish performance. According to the minister, the growth rate surpassed population expansion for the first time in nearly a decade, signalling renewed economic momentum.
Idris said the removal of fuel subsidies and the unification of the exchange rate had generated substantial savings for the government. These funds, he explained, are being redirected into priority areas such as infrastructure development and enhanced social services.
The minister also highlighted improvements in the security landscape, attributing gains to intelligence-led operations. He added that ongoing legislative efforts to establish state policing structures are expected to strengthen governance and restore greater autonomy to subnational authorities.
Idris cited increased investments in agriculture, education, and youth empowerment as beginning to yield tangible outcomes. He specifically referenced the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND), which provides interest-free student loans, alongside advances in digital infrastructure aimed at expanding opportunities for young Nigerians.
The minister urged international media organisations to present Nigeria’s narrative with nuance. “Accurate reporting requires holding both truths,” he said, noting that while challenges persist, credible progress is being made. He reiterated the government’s openness to engagement, describing strong media relations as essential to shaping Nigeria’s global image.
The Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Taiwo Oyedele, said the country’s reform programme has entered a consolidation phase. He explained that the current focus is on translating policy gains into measurable improvements in citizens’ daily lives.
“We have moved from fragility to stability, and now to consolidation, towards productivity and growth that Nigerians will feel,” Oyedele said, underscoring the importance of maintaining fiscal discipline and continuity in economic reforms.
The Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Jumoke Oduwole, outlined strategies aimed at diversifying the economy and positioning Nigeria as a leading force in Africa’s growth trajectory. She said ongoing initiatives are focused on boosting investment, expanding trade, and driving industrialisation.
“Nigeria is not just participating in Africa’s growth; we are positioning ourselves to lead it,” Oduwole stated.
