‘Nigeria is Not at War,’ Edun Reassures Global Investors as Economy Targets Strong 2026 Growth Post-Sokoto Airstrikes

The Federal Government has moved to quell jitters in the international financial community, with Finance Minister Wale Edun declaring that Nigeria remains an “anchor of peace” despite recent intensified military actions in the North-West.

In a personally signed statement released as markets resumed today, Monday, December 29, 2025, Edun addressed a surge in enquiries following the Christmas Day joint security operation with the United States in Sokoto. He stressed that the distinction between “internal conflict” and “decisive counter-terrorism” is fundamental to understanding Nigeria’s current economic trajectory.

“In light of recent enquiries, I wish to reassure our partners that Nigeria is not at war,” Edun stated. “What we are decisively confronting—alongside trusted international partners is terrorism. These operations are precise, intelligence-led, and focused exclusively on elements that threaten national stability and economic activity.”

The Minister maintained that far from weakening investor confidence, the successful neutralization of terrorist enclaves actually safeguards critical infrastructure and trade routes. He pointed to the resilience of the Nigerian Exchange (NGX) and the domestic debt market as evidence that the “fundamentals are strengthening.”

The statement highlighted a string of economic victories in the second half of 2025. With GDP growth hitting 3.98% in Q3 and inflation finally dipping below the 15% threshold for the first time in years, the government expects an even stronger performance for the fourth quarter.

“Security and economic stability are inseparable,” Edun added. “Every effort to safeguard Nigerians is, by definition, pro-growth and pro-investment. Our credit rating upgrades from Moody’s, Fitch, and Standard & Poor’s are clear, independent endorsements of the strength of our reforms.”

As the 2025 fiscal year draws to a close, the administration’s focus has shifted to 2026, with an overarching objective to consolidate these gains. The Minister assured that the policy direction remains clear: a reform-driven economy that is protected by a modern, collaborative security architecture.

“Nigeria remains open for business,” Edun concluded. “We are focused on a sustainable, inclusive, and growth-oriented 2026.”