Yemi Olakitan
In the two and a half years since President Bola Ahmed Tinubu took office on May 29, 2023, Nigeria has undergone a remarkable transformation. From economic revitalization to enhanced global standing, his administration's reforms have propelled the nation forward, defying skeptics and laying the foundation for sustained growth. While challenges persist, these 12 key developments highlight a story of progress that's often overshadowed by partisan noise. Let's dive into the facts that paint a picture of a Nigeria on the rise.
1. Stock Market Soars to Historic Heights
On January 5, 2026, the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) achieved a monumental milestone: its total market capitalization crossed the ₦100 trillion threshold for the first time, closing at ₦101.807 trillion. This surge reflects investor confidence in Tinubu's pro-business policies, signaling a robust equity market that's attracting both domestic and international capital.
2. GDP Growth: A $67 Billion Boost
President Tinubu has supercharged Nigeria's economy, adding $67 billion to the GDP in just over two years. Starting from ₦269.29 trillion at his inauguration, the economy now stands at ₦372.8 trillion. This expansion shows effective fiscal management and strategic investments in key sectors like agriculture, technology, and infrastructure.
3. Debt Reduction Amid Fiscal Discipline
Inheriting a daunting $113 billion debt burden, Tinubu's administration has trimmed it down to $97 billion through prudent borrowing and revenue optimization. This reduction eases pressure on future generations and frees up resources for development projects, demonstrating a commitment to sustainable financial health.
4. Global Recognition from The Economist and IMF
Last week, The Economist Magazine heralded the potential return of Nigeria's "golden years" thanks to Tinubu's bold reforms. Adding to the acclaim, the IMF ranked Nigeria as the sixth-largest contributor to global GDP growth in 2025—a feat celebrated by Elon Musk, the world's richest individual. These endorsements affirm Nigeria's pivotal role in the world economy.
5. From Importer to Exporter: Petroleum Sector Reversal
When Tinubu assumed office, Nigeria was Africa's largest importer of refined petroleum products, as per CITAC research. Today, South Africa holds that title, while Nigeria has flipped the script to become West Africa's top exporter of petroleum products. This shift, driven by refinery revitalization and anti-smuggling measures, boosts energy security and export revenues.
6. Taming Inflation and Building Reserves
Inflation has plummeted from a 30-year peak of 34.8% in December 2024 to a historic low of 15.2% by December 2025. Concurrently, foreign reserves are nearing $50 billion, providing a buffer against external shocks. These metrics reflect the Central Bank's effective monetary policies under Tinubu's guidance.
7. Record Trade Surpluses Signal Export Strength
Nigeria posted a $6.83 billion trade surplus in 2024—its highest ever—and is poised to surpass it in 2025. This positive balance of trade highlights diversification efforts beyond oil, with gains in manufacturing, agro-processing, and services, fostering job creation and economic resilience.
8. Passport Power: Climbing the Global Ranks
The Nigerian passport has risen from 97th to 88th on the Henley Passport Index, granting visa-free access to more destinations. This upgrade enhances mobility for Nigerians, boosts tourism, and reflects improved diplomatic relations under Tinubu's foreign policy.
9. Unprecedented Foreign Portfolio Investment
In 2025, Nigeria attracted a record $20 billion in foreign portfolio investment, shattering previous highs. This influx underscores global trust in the nation's stability and growth potential, funding infrastructure and innovation across sectors.
10. Historic State Visit to the UK
For the first time in 37 years, a Nigerian leader is undertaking a State Visit to the United Kingdom. This diplomatic milestone strengthens bilateral ties, opens doors for trade deals, and positions Nigeria as a key player in Commonwealth affairs.
11. Credit Rating Upgrade and Financial Inclusion
In April 2025, Fitch Ratings elevated Nigeria's Long-Term Foreign-Currency Issuer Default Rating from 'B-' to 'B', citing strong economic policies. This paved the way for American Express to launch its first business credit card in Nigeria, expanding credit access and empowering entrepreneurs to scale their ventures.
12. Oil Production Boom and Theft Crackdown
Nigeria has exceeded its OPEC quota for four straight months, averaging 1.71 million barrels per day, with a fifth month on track. Oil theft has dropped to under 10,000 barrels daily—a 16-year low—thanks to enhanced security and technology. This revival maximizes revenues and stabilizes the energy sector.
13. Flagship Infrastructure Renewal: Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway
This ambitious 700+ km project is advancing rapidly, with significant financing secured (e.g., $1.126 billion for Phase 1, Section 2), active construction in multiple states, and early sections commissioned, promising to revolutionize trade, tourism, and connectivity along the coast.
14. Sokoto-Badagry Superhighway Progress
Design and construction of this 1,000 km corridor linking the North to the Southwest are underway, boosting economic integration, job creation, and regional development as part of Tinubu's nationwide road network vision.
15. Revolutionary Student Loan Scheme
The NELFUND initiative has disbursed billions in tuition and upkeep loans to hundreds of thousands of students (over 1 million applications), providing equal access to higher education and including monthly stipends—the first of its kind in Nigeria.
16. End to Prolonged ASUU Strikes
Under Tinubu, ASUU has seen minimal industrial action (only brief warnings), with sustained dialogues, improved remuneration, and an enabling environment for research and teaching, ensuring stable academic calendars for the first time in decades.
17. Health Sector Stability
Health workers' strikes have largely ceased, with better welfare measures and negotiations creating a more conducive environment for medical services and reducing disruptions in public healthcare.
18. Electricity Sector Reforms and Improved Supply
Bold reforms, including the Electricity Act 2023 decentralizing power to states, have led to noticeable improvements in supply. Many Nigerians are increasingly abandoning generators as reliable electricity becomes more accessible in key areas.
19. Diplomatic Mastery with the US Amid Challenges
Facing threats from President Trump over terrorism and related issues, Tinubu deftly turned the tide, fostering cooperation against shared threats like terrorism while upholding Nigeria's sovereignty and brokering stronger US-Nigeria security ties.
20. Broader Renewed Hope Momentum
These wins are part of a holistic push: from zero-interest loans for tertiary staff to expanded women empowerment programs, Tinubu's administration is building inclusive growth and national pride.
The opposition often fixates on negatives, amplifying them while downplaying these substantial feats. Why the eagerness to undermine Nigeria's progress? Partisanship or pessimism shouldn't obscure the facts. These achievements demonstrate what focused leadership can deliver.
Nigeria is rising, let's celebrate the wins and build on them. What do you think of this progress? Drop your thoughts in the comments.
