By Dalena Reporters l January 2, 2026
ABUJA — Leading Nigerian political figures and civil society organisations have outlined a series of critiques, priorities and calls to action for the nation as it begins 2026, emphasizing the need for responsive governance, economic relief and strengthened national cohesion following a year of hardship for ordinary citizens. Their statements, issued as New Year messages or policy pronouncements, articulate broad expectations of Nigeria’s government and political leadership in the months ahead.
Former Vice President and presidential contender Atiku Abubakar underscored the severe socio-economic challenges that defined Nigeria in 2025, lamenting widespread job losses, contracting small businesses and diminished living standards. Atiku stressed that resilience among Nigerians reflects survival rather than contentment, and called for leadership that aligns with the lived realities of citizens rather than elite comfort. His remarks framed 2026 as a year to move beyond rhetoric and deliver tangible improvements to livelihoods.
Similarly, Peter Obi, the 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, urged Nigerians to embrace 2026 as a “genuine new beginning”—one built on unity, justice, accountability, compassion and the rule of law. Obi called for leaders to prioritise honesty, transparency and service over personal enrichment, urging investment in healthcare, education, jobs and equitable development instead of symbolic or extravagant public spending. His message emphasised elevating the poor and vulnerable at the centre of national policy.
Religious leadership also weighed in. The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) reflected on the hardships of the preceding year, noting that economic strain and insecurity took a toll on families and communities. CAN cautioned that endurance of hardship should not be misread as public approval of government policies, and urged that reforms produce visible improvements—particularly in cost of living, social services and security. The association also called for comprehensive, time-bound plans for the resettlement and support of communities displaced by violence.
Meanwhile, the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) and the Middle Belt Forum (MBF) highlighted the centrality of security and good governance. ACF emphasised confronting corruption and structural distortions, arguing that stability and public confidence require leadership committed to transparency and justice. The MBF stressed prioritising the welfare of ordinary Nigerians, advocating for political inclusion and socio-economic well-being as prerequisites for national progress.
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) also issued a New Year appeal, urging the federal government to address insecurity and economic hardship as national emergencies. In its message, the party insisted that 2026 must mark a turning point in governance—measured by decisive action to protect lives and property and restore public trust, rather than by political partisanship or unfulfilled promises.
Taken together, the statements from these leaders and groups draw a cohesive picture of popular expectations for 2026:
- Responsive leadership able to confront insecurity and economic strain with effective policy;
- Transparent governance that prioritises ordinary citizens over political expediency;
- Strengthened social cohesion, beyond partisan divides, to address systemic challenges; and
- Meaningful reforms in economic, security and social sectors that produce measurable improvements in daily life.
As Nigeria charts its course through the new year, these voices illustrate a growing demand for inclusive, results-oriented governance that moves beyond crisis management to deliver stability, opportunity and dignity for all Nigerians.