The federal government on Sunday sought to calm investor nerves following a joint U.S.-Nigeria security operation in Sokoto on Christmas day, emphasising that the country remains focused on economic reform and growth.
Wale Edun, finance minister and coordinating minister of the economy in a statement personally signed by him, described the operation as “precise, intelligence-led, and focused exclusively on terrorist elements that threaten innocent lives, national stability, and economic activity.”
Edun stressed that Nigeria is not at war with itself or any nation, but is instead confronting terrorism in partnership with trusted international allies.
“Far from destabilising markets or weakening confidence, such actions strengthen the foundations of peace, protect productive communities, and reinforce the conditions required for sustainable growth,” Edun said. “Security and economic stability are inseparable; every effort to safeguard Nigerians is, by definition, pro-growth and pro-investment.”
The statement came amid heightened scrutiny from investors and analysts following the military operation, reflecting concerns over security risks and their potential impact on markets. The federal government has been working to reassure global partners that the country’s economic fundamentals remain intact and that recent security measures are consistent with maintaining stability.
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Edun highlighted the government’s macroeconomic performance in 2025 as evidence of progress under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. According to the statement, Nigeria’s GDP grew 4.23% in the second quarter and 3.98% in the third, with expectations of a stronger fourth-quarter performance. Inflation has fallen for the seventh consecutive period and is now below 15%, signaling improving price stability.
“Our financial markets remain resilient. Domestic and international debt markets are stable and functioning efficiently, supported by prudent fiscal management,” Edun said, pointing to credit rating upgrades from Moody’s, Fitch, and Standard & Poor’s as independent endorsements of Nigeria’s reform agenda.
The finance minister reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to fiscal discipline and economic transformation. “We have maintained fiscal discipline, prioritised efficiency, and protected macroeconomic stability—demonstrating resilience in the face of external shocks,” he said.
Looking ahead to 2026, Edun said Nigeria’s overarching goal is to consolidate gains from 2025, strengthen economic resilience, and build a sustainable, inclusive, growth-oriented economy. “The actions we take today—on security, reforms, and fiscal discipline—are aligned with that goal,” he said.
As markets prepare to reopen on Monday, the statement seeks to assure investors that Nigeria remains open for business. “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,” Edun emphasised.