•Says markets unshaken, confidence bolstered

By Uche Usim

Following widespread concerns over a targeted joint security operation conducted with the United States in Sokoto on Christmas Day, the Minister of Finance and Coordinated Minister of the Economy, Mr Wale Edun, has assured anxious Nigerians and investors that there was no cause for alarm as the nation remains on a steady path toward peace, stability and economic growth.

Edun in a statement yesterday emphasised that the operation was not indicative of war but a decisive action against terrorism in collaboration with trusted international partners.

“Nigeria is not at war with itself, nor with any nation. What we are confronting decisively, alongside trusted partners, is terrorism. This distinction is important, and it is fundamental to understanding the positive economic implications of recent actions,” Edun said.

Describing the operation as precise and intelligence-led, the minister explained that it focused exclusively on terrorist elements threatening lives, national stability, and economic activity. “Far from destabilizing markets or weakening confidence, such actions strengthen the foundations of peace, protect productive communities, and reinforce the conditions required for sustainable growth. Security and economic stability are inseparable; every effort to safeguard Nigerians is, by definition, pro-growth and pro-investment,” he added.

Edun highlighted Nigeria’s economic performance under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, noting measurable gains in both security and economic reforms. “In Q3 2025, Nigeria recorded GDP growth of 3.98%, following a strong 4.23% in Q2. Inflation has decelerated for the seventh consecutive period and is now below 15%, reflecting improved price stability and the effectiveness of coordinated fiscal and monetary actions,” he said.

He also pointed to the resilience of Nigeria’s financial markets, noting stable domestic and international debt markets supported by prudent fiscal management. “Over the past year, Nigeria has received credit rating upgrades from Moody’s, Fitch, and Standard & Poor’s—clear, independent endorsements of the strength of our reforms and the credibility of our economic direction,” Edun stated.

For the future, the minister outlined the administration’s objectives for 2026, stressing consolidation of the gains achieved in 2025 and continued growth-focused policies.

“The actions we take today, on security, reforms, and fiscal discipline, are aligned with our goal to strengthen economic resilience and build a sustainable, inclusive, and growth-oriented economy,” he said.

As markets reopen on Monday, December 29, 2025, Edun reassured investors that Nigeria remains open for business and committed to stability. “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,” he affirmed.