Nigeria’s Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister for the Economy, Wale Edun, has assured domestic and foreign investors that the country is not at war, following recent joint security operations involving Nigerian forces and the United States.
Okay News reports that Edun said the Christmas Day operation carried out in Sokoto State, north-west Nigeria, was intelligence-led and narrowly targeted at terrorist elements, stressing that it would not destabilise markets or weaken investor confidence.
The reassurance followed public comments by US President Donald Trump, who announced the strikes on social media, sparking concerns about Nigeria’s security outlook and triggering negative reactions across financial markets at the time.
Edun said the Federal Government-approved operation formed part of ongoing efforts to protect lives, communities, and economic activity, adding that Nigeria remains at peace with itself and all nations.
He noted that security actions aimed at neutralising terrorism should be viewed as pro-growth measures, arguing that safeguarding citizens and productive regions strengthens the foundations for sustainable economic development.
The finance minister also pointed to improving macroeconomic indicators, citing GDP growth of 3.98 per cent in the third quarter of 2025, following a stronger 4.23 per cent expansion in the previous quarter, alongside a sustained decline in inflation to below 15 per cent.
Edun said Nigeria’s financial markets remain resilient, with domestic and international debt markets operating efficiently, supported by what he described as prudent fiscal management and disciplined economic reforms.
He highlighted recent credit rating upgrades from Moody’s, Fitch, and Standard & Poor’s as independent endorsements of Nigeria’s reform agenda and policy direction under President Bola Tinubu.
Looking ahead to 2026, Edun said the government’s priority is to consolidate economic gains recorded in 2025, strengthen resilience against external shocks, and sustain an inclusive growth trajectory.
He concluded that as markets reopen, investors can remain confident that Nigeria is stable, reform-driven, and open for business, with security, fiscal discipline, and economic growth firmly aligned.
