Christmas: Abiru felicitates Christians, says Nigeria’s economy turning corner

Joseph Abimbola

The Chairman of the Senate Committee on Banking, Insurance and Other Financial Institutions, Senator Mukhail Adetokunbo Abiru, has extended warm Christmas greetings to Christians and all Nigerians, calling for unity, tolerance and peaceful coexistence across the country.

In a goodwill message to mark the festive season, the Senator representing Lagos East Senatorial District described Christmas as a period that underscores the importance of love, sacrifice, compassion and shared values in fostering national harmony.

Abiru urged Nigerians to rise above ethnic, religious and political differences, stressing that peaceful coexistence remains essential to nation-building and sustainable development.

Commenting on the state of the economy, the Senator said Nigeria’s economy has “turned the corner,” citing emerging signs of recovery and stabilisation under the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

He attributed the positive outlook to the government’s bold economic reforms, including the removal of fuel subsidies, foreign exchange unification, fiscal discipline and ongoing tax reforms, noting that these measures are beginning to deliver measurable results.

According to him, Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth has strengthened to over 3.5 per cent, driven largely by improvements in the non-oil sector such as services, agriculture and technology.

He also noted increased transparency and liquidity in the foreign exchange market, rising capital inflows and growing investor confidence.

Senator Abiru further disclosed that foreign reserves are recovering steadily, while food inflation pressures have begun to ease due to improved harvests and targeted agricultural interventions.

He added that the banking and financial services sector remains resilient, supported by improved capitalisation, stronger regulation and increased credit to productive sectors.

Calling for patience and national solidarity, the lawmaker said the reforms were necessary to address long-standing structural challenges and lay the foundation for inclusive and sustainable growth.

“I celebrate with the people of Lagos East, Lagos State and all Nigerians on the occasion of Christmas,” Abiru said. “I urge Christians to embody Christ-like virtues of love, sacrifice, unity and peaceful coexistence.

“I am convinced that the worst is behind us. Key economic indicators now point to recovery, stability and renewed investor confidence. With patience, unity and collective effort, Nigeria will emerge stronger.”

The senator reaffirmed his commitment to supporting policies and legislation that strengthen the economy, promote financial inclusion and protect the welfare of citizens, particularly the most vulnerable.

He wished Christians a joyful Christmas celebration and prayed for peace, progress and prosperity in Nigeria.