Nigeria Not at War, FG Tells Investors After Sokoto Operation

Nigeria Not at War, FG Tells Investors After Sokoto Operation

JOEL OLADELE, Abuja

The Federal Government has reassured investors and international partners that Nigeria remains peaceful, stable and firmly open for business, following recent security operations carried out in Sokoto State.

In a statement signed on Sunday by the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, the government said the targeted joint operation conducted by Nigeria and the United States on Christmas Day should not be misconstrued as a sign of instability or conflict.

Edun clarified that Nigeria is neither at war with itself nor with any nation, stressing that the operation was aimed solely at confronting terrorism in collaboration with trusted partners. “Nigeria is not at war with itself, nor with any nation. What Nigeria is decisively confronting; alongside trusted international partners is terrorism,” the minister stated.

He explained that the operation was precise and intelligence-led, adding that such actions strengthen national stability and protect economic activity rather than undermine it.

According to him, decisive security interventions help to safeguard productive communities and reinforce the foundations needed for sustainable growth and long-term investment.

Highlighting recent economic performance, Edun said Nigeria recorded a GDP growth of 3.98 per cent in the third quarter of 2025, following a stronger 4.23 per cent expansion in the second quarter, with expectations of improved performance in the final quarter of the year.

He also noted that inflation has eased for the seventh consecutive period and is now below 15 per cent, reflecting improved price stability.

The minister said Nigeria’s financial markets remain resilient, supported by prudent fiscal management and coordinated reforms, adding that recent credit rating upgrades by Moody’s, Fitch and Standard & Poor’s are clear endorsements of the country’s economic direction.

He emphasised the link between security and economic confidence, noting that protecting lives and stability directly supports investment and growth.

“Security and economic stability are inseparable; every effort to safeguard Nigerians is, by definition, pro-growth and pro-investment,” Edun said.

As markets reopen, the minister urged investors to remain confident in Nigeria’s reform-driven agenda, assuring them that the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu remains focused on consolidating gains, strengthening economic resilience and building a sustainable, inclusive economy.

He reaffirmed that Nigeria remains open for business, anchored on peace and firmly focused on the future.