Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), George Akume, has defended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s economic reforms, saying they are beginning to produce results as Nigeria marks its 66th Independence anniversary, with real Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth reaching 4.2 per cent in the first half of 2026. Akume spoke on Wednesday in Abuja […]
Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), George Akume, has defended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s economic reforms, saying they are beginning to produce results as Nigeria marks its 66th Independence anniversary, with real Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth reaching 4.2 per cent in the first half of 2026.
Akume spoke on Wednesday in Abuja at the 66th Independence Anniversary Lecture, where he reviewed some of the economic and social measures implemented by the Federal Government since Tinubu assumed office in 2023.
The SGF said the administration took what he described as bold decisions early in its tenure, including the removal of the petrol subsidy, unification of the foreign exchange market and implementation of tax and other fiscal reforms.
According to him, although the decisions were difficult, they were necessary to restore stability to the Nigerian economy.
Akume said the government was already beginning to see the impact of the reforms, citing World Bank figures which showed that real GDP grew by 4.2 per cent in the first half of 2026, compared with 3.9 per cent during the same period in 2025.
He stressed, however, that economic growth alone would not be enough, saying the government must ensure that the expansion translates into employment opportunities and higher incomes for Nigerians.
The SGF also highlighted youth development initiatives, saying the government had expanded the Education Loan Fund to help millions of students access university and vocational education.
He said technical and vocational institutions were also being strengthened to equip young Nigerians with skills demanded by employers and industries.
Akume further listed healthcare and social protection among areas where the administration was recording progress, citing the equipping of thousands of primary healthcare centres through the IMPACT initiative.
He said the government was also expanding programmes including NG-CARES Additional Financing, SOLID and HOPE, which are backed by Federal Government and World Bank funding and provide cash transfers and essential services to vulnerable families.
On security, Akume praised the armed forces and said the government was improving intelligence, equipment and coordination among security agencies.
He disclosed that a new National Threat Assessment and five-year Strategic Defence Plan were being developed to provide a more coordinated approach to Nigeria’s security challenges.
The SGF also called on Nigerians in the diaspora to increase their investment in the country, stressing that their contribution could go beyond remittances to include ideas, capital and expertise.
His comments formed part of the Federal Government’s broader presentation of its record as Nigeria marked 66 years of independence.
While defending the reforms, Akume said the government recognised the need to ensure that the reported economic growth ultimately improves the lives of ordinary Nigerians.
He therefore urged the government and citizens to maintain focus on reforms and development initiatives, saying the administration would continue working towards economic stability, improved security and stronger social services.