Speaking at the End-of-Year Press Briefing on Monday at NICON Luxury Hotel, Abuja, Idris addressed concerns about the new counterterrorism doctrine, which classifies all armed groups operating outside state authority—including bandits, militias, armed gangs, and their political or community enablers—as terrorists.
He emphasised that Nigeria’s Armed Forces are trained to international standards, collaborate with global partners, and follow strict engagement protocols, commending their professionalism in defending the nation.
Reviewing the administration’s achievements in 2025, Idris said the government focused on restoring macroeconomic stability and rebuilding confidence in the economy. Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product grew by 3.98 per cent in the third quarter, while headline inflation declined for eight consecutive months to 14.45 per cent in November.
Idris also highlighted improved trade performance, with a trade surplus of N6.69 trillion in the third quarter, representing 27.29 per cent year-on-year growth, and strengthened external reserves of $44.56 billion, which have stabilised the currency and reassured international investors.
On infrastructure, the minister said economic reforms were deliberately tied to delivery. Nigeria recorded a record daily energy output of 128,370.75 megawatt-hours in March, alongside progress on the Presidential Metering Initiative and the Presidential Power Sector Debt Reduction Programme.
The government also invested over N1.5 trillion in road projects in 2025, focusing on four legacy highways designed to connect regions and open new economic corridors, while agriculture received a boost through the recapitalisation of the Bank of Agriculture with N1.5 trillion.
Idris further confirmed the release of all 230 abducted pupils of St Mary’s Catholic School, Papiri, Niger State, offering reassurance to affected families. He concluded that while 2025 strengthened national foundations, 2026 will focus on building a secure, competitive, and prosperous Nigeria.
