President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Friday presented a N58 trillion 2026 budget to a joint sitting of the National Assembly, stating that the fiscal plan is guided by a clear philosophy and four core objectives aimed at consolidating Nigeria’s ongoing reforms. Addressing lawmakers, Vice President Kashim Shettima, governors, cabinet members, and other political leaders, Tinubu said the 2026 Budget was prepared against what he described as “an improving global outlook,” while maintaining focus on Nigeria’s economic recovery.
The President said he appeared before the joint session in fulfilment of his constitutional duty to present the 2026 Appropriation Bill, describing the moment as significant in Nigeria’s reform journey. He said the administration had, over the last two and a half years, made deliberate choices to confront structural weaknesses, stabilise the economy, rebuild confidence, and lay the foundation for a more resilient and inclusive country.
“These reforms were necessary — and they have not been painless,” Tinubu said, acknowledging the pressure faced by families and businesses. He assured Nigerians that the sacrifices made were not in vain, adding that reform was essential for long-term stability and shared prosperity. According to him, the 2026 Budget is designed to consolidate gains already made and turn recovery into improved living standards.
Tinubu stated that the budget is themed “Budget of Consolidation, Renewed Resilience and Shared Prosperity,” noting that it reflects the government’s determination to lock in macroeconomic stability, deepen competitiveness, and ensure that growth results in better jobs, rising incomes, and improved quality of life across the federation.
Under the philosophy and objectives of the 2026 Budget, the President clearly outlined four guiding goals. “Mr. Chairman and fellow Nigerians, the 2026 Budget is guided by four clear objectives,” Tinubu said. He listed them as consolidating macroeconomic stability, improving the business and investment environment, promoting job-rich growth and reducing poverty, and strengthening human capital while protecting the vulnerable.
He added that the administration intends to approach spending and borrowing with discipline. “In short: we will spend with purpose, manage debt with discipline, and pursue growth that is broad-based — not narrow — and sustainable — not temporary,” Tinubu said.
The President noted that the budget philosophy builds on recent economic reforms and improving indicators, stressing that the task ahead is to consolidate gains so that stability translates into prosperity shared by Nigerians. He said the focus remains on ensuring that economic management supports confidence, productivity, and inclusion.
Tinubu also linked the budget philosophy to realism and prudence, noting that fiscal decisions must reflect national priorities. He said the figures presented in the budget represent more than accounting entries, describing them as a statement of intent to maintain fiscal sustainability, transparency, and value-for-money spending.
According to the President, the philosophy guiding the 2026 Budget aligns with the Renewed Hope Agenda and the need to balance stability with growth. He stressed that every naira spent or borrowed must deliver measurable public value, particularly in areas that support human capital, economic opportunity, and protection for vulnerable Nigerians.
