FG Closes 2025 Claiming Diplomatic Recovery, Security Gains and Economic Stabilisation

By Naija Enquirer Staff

The Federal Government says Nigeria is ending 2025 on a stronger footing, citing improved diplomatic relations, enhanced security coordination and signs of economic stabilisation.

A dispute with Washington — and a quick reset

Speaking at an end-of-year news conference in Abuja, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, said a recent diplomatic row with the United States had been largely resolved.

The disagreement followed comments by former US President Donald Trump threatening possible military action over alleged killings of Christians in Nigeria. Idris said the matter was addressed through firm but respectful engagement, resulting in renewed and stronger ties between both countries.

According to the government, the episode demonstrated Nigeria’s ability to defend its international image while maintaining strategic relationships with key global partners.

Health diplomacy as proof of restored ties

To underscore improved relations, the government pointed to a newly signed five-year, $5.1 billion health cooperation agreement with the United States. Under the deal, Washington is expected to provide $2.1 billion in grants, while Nigeria will commit $3 billion.

Idris described the agreement as the largest co-investment under the US “America First Global Health Strategy,” noting that it would strengthen Nigeria’s healthcare system, attract investment and save lives.

Analysts say the timing of the agreement, coming shortly after diplomatic tensions, signals that cooperation between both countries remains intact despite political disagreements.

Nigeria’s wider diplomatic ambitions

Beyond relations with the US, the government said Nigeria is repositioning itself more assertively on the global stage. Newly appointed ambassadors are expected to assume duties in their host countries in 2026 following confirmation by the National Assembly.

The administration believes the move will enhance Nigeria’s international visibility and strengthen bilateral relations at a time of growing global competition for influence and investment.

A security breakthrough to end the year

On security, the government confirmed the release of all 230 pupils abducted from St Mary’s Catholic School in Papiri, Niger State. The development, Idris said, reflects improved intelligence coordination and more effective military operations.

The rescue was cited as evidence of a shift in Nigeria’s security response after years of public concern over persistent kidnappings.

Redefining kidnapping as terrorism

In what it described as a major policy shift, the government announced that kidnappers and violent armed groups would now be formally classified as terrorists.

Under the new approach, mass abductions and attacks on farmers and rural communities will be treated as acts of terrorism rather than ordinary crimes, allowing for stronger intelligence sharing, faster response times and tougher legal consequences.

“This is the end of ambiguous labels,” Idris said, stressing that anyone terrorising communities would now face the full weight of counter-terrorism laws.

Forest guards and high-profile arrests

As part of the new strategy, the government said trained forest guards are being deployed to secure remote areas often used as criminal hideouts.

Officials also pointed to recent high-profile arrests, including senior ISWAP figures, as evidence that improved coordination among security agencies is yielding results.

Economic signs of stabilisation — but challenges remain

On the economy, the government painted a cautiously optimistic picture, noting that GDP grew by 3.98% in the third quarter of 2025, while inflation fell to 14.45% in November, marking eight consecutive months of decline.

The administration also highlighted investments in infrastructure, power, agriculture and youth programmes, alongside expanded access to student loans and digital skills training.

However, economists note that many Nigerians continue to feel the pressure of high living costs, making economic reforms politically sensitive.

Looking to 2026: consolidation over expansion

The proposed ₦58.18 trillion 2026 budget, the government said, reflects a shift from emergency reforms to consolidation, with priorities on capital projects, national security and tax reforms aimed at improving revenue and accountability.

Idris acknowledged that reforms have brought short-term discomfort but insisted they are laying the foundation for long-term stability and growth.

A confident tone — with public expectations rising

As 2025 draws to a close, the Tinubu administration is projecting confidence that diplomacy has stabilised, security is improving and the economy is gradually recovering.

Whether this optimism translates into lasting change in 2026 will depend on how policies affect everyday life, particularly in rural security, healthcare access and relief from economic hardship.