THIS DAWN — The Federal Ministry of Finance has issued a statement addressing concerns raised by investors and analysts following the joint Nigeria–U.S. security operation conducted in Sokoto on Christmas Day.
The Ministry emphasized that Nigeria is not at war with itself or any nation, but is decisively confronting terrorism in partnership with trusted international allies.
The statement, signed by Honourable Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, reassures stakeholders that the operation strengthens peace and stability while reinforcing the foundations for sustainable economic growth.
Security Operations and Market Confidence
The Ministry described the December 25 operation as precise, intelligence-led, and focused exclusively on terrorist elements threatening national stability and economic activity.
Far from destabilizing markets, the statement argued that such actions protect communities, safeguard livelihoods, and create conditions conducive to investment.
“Security and economic stability are inseparable; every effort to safeguard Nigerians is, by definition, pro-growth and pro-investment,” the statement read.
This framing underscores the government’s view that decisive counterterrorism measures are integral to sustaining investor confidence and ensuring long-term prosperity.
Economic Performance in 2025
The Finance Ministry highlighted Nigeria’s macroeconomic achievements under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration. Key indicators include:
- GDP Growth: 3.98% in Q3 2025, following 4.23% in Q2, with expectations of stronger performance in Q4.
- Inflation: Decelerated for seven consecutive periods, now below 15%, reflecting improved price stability.
- Fiscal Discipline: Coordinated fiscal and monetary actions credited with stabilizing the economy.
These figures, according to the Ministry, demonstrate tangible progress in both security and economic reforms, reinforcing Nigeria’s resilience in the face of external shocks.
Financial Market Resilience
Nigeria’s financial markets remain stable and efficient, supported by prudent fiscal management.
The Ministry noted that both domestic and international debt markets are functioning smoothly.
Over the past year, Nigeria has received credit rating upgrades from Moody’s, Fitch, and Standard & Poor’s, which the statement described as “clear, independent endorsements of the strength of our reforms and the credibility of our economic direction.”
Such upgrades are significant, as they enhance Nigeria’s attractiveness to foreign investors and reduce borrowing costs, further consolidating fiscal sustainability.
Looking ahead, the Ministry reiterated President Tinubu’s overarching objective for 2026: consolidating the gains of 2025, strengthening economic resilience, and building a sustainable, inclusive, and growth-oriented economy.
The statement emphasized that current actions on security, reforms, and fiscal discipline are aligned with this goal.
By linking security operations directly to economic outcomes, the government seeks to reassure both domestic and international stakeholders that Nigeria’s trajectory remains positive and reform-driven.
Investor Outlook
As markets reopened on December 29, 2025, the Ministry urged investors to remain confident in Nigeria’s stability and policy direction.
“The fundamentals are strengthening, the policy direction is clear, and the resolve of this administration—to protect lives, secure prosperity, and grow the economy—is unwavering,” the statement concluded.
This assurance is particularly important given the sensitivity of financial markets to geopolitical developments.
By proactively addressing concerns, the government aims to prevent volatility and maintain investor trust.
The Federal Ministry of Finance’s statement following the Sokoto security operation reflects Nigeria’s dual commitment to combating terrorism and sustaining economic progress.
With GDP growth accelerating, inflation declining, and credit ratings improving, the government is positioning Nigeria as a resilient and reform-driven economy.
By emphasizing that Nigeria remains “open for business, anchored in peace, and firmly focused on the future,” the Ministry seeks to reassure investors, analysts, and multilateral partners that the country’s path toward stability and prosperity remains intact.
