NIGERIA: FG Assures Investors After Sokoto Security Operation, Says Markets Remain Stable

By Ameenat Hamzat, Lagos, Nigeria 

The Federal Government has reassured investors and international partners of Nigeria’s economic stability following a joint security operation by Nigerian and United States forces in Sokoto State on Christmas Day, stressing that the action poses no threat to market confidence or national stability.

In a statement issued on Monday, the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, clarified that the operation was targeted, intelligence-led, and directed solely at terrorist elements, countering speculations that Nigeria was facing internal conflict.

According to the minister, Nigeria is not at war with itself nor with any foreign nation, but is firmly confronting terrorism in collaboration with trusted international partners to safeguard lives, communities, and economic activity.

Edun said, adding that such actions strengthen peace and reinforce the foundations for sustainable economic development.

“The operation was precise and focused exclusively on terrorist elements that threaten innocent lives, national stability, and economic growth.”

He noted that security and economic growth are inseparable, explaining that efforts to protect citizens also create the conditions necessary for investment, productivity, and long-term prosperity.

Highlighting Nigeria’s recent economic performance, the finance minister said the country recorded a 3.98 per cent Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth in the third quarter of 2025, following a 4.23 per cent growth in the second quarter, with expectations of a stronger performance in the final quarter of the year.

He further disclosed that inflation has declined for seven consecutive periods and is now below 15 per cent, attributing the improvement to coordinated fiscal and monetary policies under the current administration.

Edun also stated that Nigeria’s financial markets remain resilient, noting that both domestic and international debt markets continue to function efficiently, supported by prudent fiscal management and macroeconomic discipline.

According to him, the country has received credit rating upgrades from Moody’s, Fitch, and Standard & Poor’s over the past year, describing the upgrades as independent endorsements of Nigeria’s reform agenda and economic direction.

The minister reaffirmed the commitment of the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu-led administration to consolidating economic gains in 2026, strengthening resilience, and building an inclusive, growth-driven economy.

“As markets reopen on Monday, December 29, 2025, investors can be confident that Nigeria remains focused, reform-driven, and committed to stability,” Edun said.

He added that Nigeria remains open for business, anchored on peace and sustained reforms, with the resolve of the Federal Government in protecting lives and securing economic prosperity.