By Maryam Shuaibu
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu says Nigeria’s economic reforms are beginning to yield results, with growth in non-oil exports, expanding SME participation, and rising investment across key sectors.
Speaking during his 2026 Democracy Day speech, Tinubu said non-oil exports increased by 21% in the past year, while more than 1,000 small and medium enterprises have been certified for export readiness.
“Over 1,000 SMEs have been certified for export,” he said, adding that reforms were designed to reposition Nigeria away from oil dependency.
The President said investments are now flowing into agriculture, energy, manufacturing, mining, transportation, technology, and the creative economy.
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He also noted improvements in domestic refining capacity, which he said has reduced Nigeria’s reliance on imported petroleum products.
“Our reforms since 2023 have restored stability and credibility to economic management,” Tinubu said, adding that investor confidence is returning.
In agriculture, he highlighted plans under the National Agricultural Development Fund to deploy 10,000 tractors over five years to boost productivity.
He acknowledged economic hardship but insisted that reforms are necessary for long-term stability.
“We remain focused on reducing inflation, expanding food production, and creating jobs,” he said.
According to him, the goal is to ensure that “democracy must be felt in the pocket.”