The Federal Government has reaffirmed that Nigeria remains pivotal to peace, stability, and economic progress in West Africa, insisting that the country is stable and on a steady path of recovery and growth.
The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, made this known on Thursday at the 2026 forum organised by Voice of Nigeria, held at the Shehu Musa Yar’Adua Centre.
He emphasised that Nigeria’s fortunes are closely tied to those of the West African sub-region, noting that a peaceful and democratic environment is essential for investment, growth, and shared prosperity.
This was contained in a statement on Thursday, 9th April, 2026, by Rabiu Ibrahim, Special Assistant on Media to the Minister.
According to the minister, Nigeria has maintained a leadership role in the region for over five decades through peacekeeping missions, mediation efforts, and support for democratic governance across West Africa.
Idris dismissed claims that Nigeria is on the brink of collapse, describing such narratives as false and misleading.
He said current realities point to a nation making steady progress in security and economic reforms.
Highlighting efforts in the security sector, the minister disclosed that the 2026 budget earmarks ₦5.41 trillion—the highest allocation—for security.
He noted that recent military operations have led to the neutralisation of top terrorist commanders and the rescue of thousands of kidnapped victims nationwide.
On the economy, Idris said ongoing reforms, including fuel subsidy removal and foreign exchange adjustments, are strengthening public finances and improving growth prospects.
He added that inflation is easing while global institutions project Nigeria’s economy to grow above the global average in 2026.
The minister also underscored the importance of Voice of Nigeria in projecting the country’s image globally and countering misinformation, describing it as a vital tool for public diplomacy.
He called for stronger collaboration among government institutions, the media, civil society, and international partners to sustain democracy and regional peace.
The event was attended by prominent dignitaries, including Deputy Senate President Barau I. Jibrin; Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu; the Etsu Nupe, Yahaya Abubakar; and Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, Olanipekun Olukoyede, among others.
The Federal Government reiterated its commitment to working with regional and international partners to sustain Nigeria’s leadership role in advancing peace, security, and development across West Africa.