Sokoto Operation Boosts Investor Confidence, Nigeria Not at War — Economy Strong, Markets Stable, Finance Minister Assures

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Nigeria’s economy remains resilient and firmly on a path of peace, stability and sustained growth, the Federal Government has said, dismissing concerns that recent security operations could unsettle markets or investor confidence.

A strongly worded statement on Sunday December 28, 2025, personally signed by the Honourable Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun, clarified that the targeted joint security operation carried out by Nigerian and United States forces in Sokoto on Christmas Day was a carefully planned, intelligence-driven action against terrorist elements.

Edun stressed that Nigeria is neither at war with itself nor with any foreign nation, emphasising that the country is decisively confronting terrorism in partnership with trusted international allies.

“What Nigeria is confronting is terrorism—an enemy that threatens innocent lives, national stability and economic activity,” the minister said, adding that the distinction is critical for understanding the positive economic implications of the operation.

According to him, the precision operation was designed to neutralise threats to peace and productivity, noting that such actions strengthen—not weaken—the foundations of economic growth.

He explained that security and economic stability are deeply interconnected, insisting that safeguarding lives and communities is inherently pro-growth and pro-investment.

Under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, Edun said Nigeria has recorded measurable progress in both security and economic reforms, with clear results reflected in macroeconomic indicators.

He revealed that the country posted a GDP growth rate of 3.98 per cent in the third quarter of 2025, following a stronger 4.23 per cent expansion in Q2, and expressed confidence that the fourth quarter would deliver even stronger performance.

The minister also disclosed that inflation has declined for the seventh consecutive period and is now below 15 per cent, signalling improving price stability and the effectiveness of coordinated fiscal and monetary policies.

On the financial markets, Edun assured that Nigeria’s domestic and international debt markets remain stable and efficient, supported by prudent fiscal management. He pointed to recent credit rating upgrades by Moody’s, Fitch and Standard & Poor’s as independent validation of the government’s reform agenda and economic direction.

Despite global economic headwinds, he said the administration has maintained fiscal discipline, prioritised efficiency and preserved macroeconomic stability, reinforcing investor confidence and economic resilience.

Looking ahead, Edun referenced President Tinubu’s recent address, noting that the administration’s core objective for 2026 is to consolidate the gains of 2025, deepen reforms and build a more resilient, inclusive and growth-driven economy.

“As markets reopen on Monday, December 29, 2025, investors can be assured that Nigeria remains focused, reform-driven and committed to stability,” the minister said.
He concluded by reaffirming that Nigeria remains open for business, anchored in peace and firmly focused on securing prosperity and long-term economic growth.