According to a fresh forecast by EnterpriseNGR, Nigeria’s economy could experience more rapid momentum in 2026, with real GDP growth expected to rise to 4.4 percent from an estimated 3.98 percent in 2025.
As part of the group’s 2026 Macroeconomic Outlook developed in cooperation with EY Parthenon, the projection was released in Lagos.
The report notes that Nigeria is reaching a critical tipping point following recent policy changes and cites better macroeconomic indicators.
Supported by tighter monetary policy and greater foreign currency stability, inflation was expected to drop significantly from 34.8 percent in 2024 to 15.15 percent by December 2025.
Citing pre-election fiscal pressure and structural hurdles, especially in agriculture, where insecurity continues to influence food supply, EnterpriseNGR expects inflation to rise to 16.5% in 2026.
The News Chronicle gathered that external reserves have also increased to $45.5 billion by December 2025 and are expected to reach $51.04 billion by the year 2026, so enhancing import cover and bolstering market confidence.
The study links the improvement to FX reforms that increased market activity and narrowed the gap between official and street rates.
Though debt servicing continues a significant constraint, public debt to GDP is expected to fall to 34.68 percent in 2026.
While non-oil sectors like services, telecom, financial, and trade sectors fuel growth, the CBN is anticipated to maintain the policy rate at 27% for most of the year, according to the report.
