Economy Records Tremendous Improvement Under Tinubu, Says Idris

The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mallam Mohammed Idris, has assured Nigerians that the country’s economy is steadily improving under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, attributing the progress to bold and wide-ranging reforms across multiple sectors.

Speaking in Abuja on Wednesday while receiving the newly elected leadership of the Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE), the Minister acknowledged that while economic challenges persist, the government is “turning the corner” and laying the foundation for long-term recovery.

“The economy is not yet what we want it to be, but we can see that there is a steady progression. The President has said over and over again that we are turning the corner,” Idris stated. “I know many people will say it’s not yet El-dorado. Yes, I agree. But you cannot always say that there is no progress.”

According to him, international rating agencies are already recognizing Nigeria’s efforts with improved assessments, which reflect growing confidence in the country’s economic management.

He highlighted key reforms such as the removal of the petrol subsidy and the unification of foreign exchange rates as pivotal decisions that are now yielding results. “These are landmark policy shifts that are already beginning to have a positive impact,” the Minister noted.

On education, Idris revealed that the Federal Government’s Student Loan Scheme has started transforming access to higher education, with nearly 300,000 students now benefiting from tuition coverage and upkeep allowances. “This is unprecedented,” he said, adding that the scheme has ensured that thousands of young Nigerians who might have dropped out are now back in school.

Turning to security, Idris stressed that the administration is confronting Nigeria’s security challenges with renewed vigor, citing “sustained successes” in the fight against violent crime. He called on the media to be strategic partners in this effort.

“The Armed Forces need the media to support their work. Our reports should not only focus on attacks or setbacks, but also spotlight the victories and the sacrifices of our security personnel,” he urged.

In response to a report submitted by the Guild’s Law Reform Committee, Idris promised to collaborate with the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of the Federation to examine its recommendations. He also announced plans to set up a committee within the Ministry of Information to review the document in detail.

Earlier, the Deputy President of the NGE, Dr. Sebastian Abu, said the delegation was at the minister’s office to officially present the Guild’s Law Reform Report. He said the report identifies a number of outdated laws that hinder press freedom and called for their revision to foster a more enabling media environment.

The visit marked a renewed commitment between government and media professionals to promote transparency, reform, and national development.