Nigeria’s financial markets remain steady and resilient despite recent US air strikes targeting Islamic State (ISIS) terrorists in Sokoto, the minister of finance, Wale Edun, has said.
The reassurance follows reports of explosions in parts of Sokoto and Kwara states on December 25, linked to a targeted joint security operation between Nigeria and the United States.
In a statement on Sunday, Edun said both domestic and international debt markets are stable and functioning efficiently, crediting prudent fiscal management and sustained reforms.
“Our financial markets remain resilient. Domestic and international debt markets are stable and functioning efficiently, supported by prudent fiscal management,” he said.
Responding to enquiries from investors, analysts and multilateral partners, the minister stressed that Nigeria is not at war with itself or any other country.
“What Nigeria is decisively confronting—alongside trusted international partners—is terrorism,” Edun said, describing the distinction as critical to understanding the economic implications of the operation.
According to him, the Christmas Day strike was “precise, intelligence-led, and focused exclusively on terrorist elements that threaten innocent lives, national stability, and economic activity”.
Rather than undermine confidence, Edun argued that such actions strengthen peace, protect productive communities and support sustainable growth.
“Security and economic stability are inseparable; every effort to safeguard Nigerians is, by definition, pro-growth and pro-investment,” he said.
Edun pointed to recent macroeconomic gains under President Bola Tinubu’s administration, noting that Nigeria recorded GDP growth of 3.98 percent in the third quarter of 2025, following a stronger 4.23 percent expansion in Q2.
He said a stronger fourth-quarter performance is expected, while inflation has eased for the seventh consecutive period and fallen below 15 percent, signalling improved price stability.
The minister also highlighted recent credit rating upgrades by Moody’s, Fitch and Standard & Poor’s, describing them as independent validation of Nigeria’s reform agenda and economic direction.
“We have maintained fiscal discipline, prioritised efficiency, and protected macroeconomic stability—demonstrating resilience in the face of external shocks,” he said.
As markets reopen on Monday, December 29, 2025, Edun assured investors that Nigeria remains reform-driven, stable and focused on long-term growth.
He added that economic fundamentals are strengthening, policy direction is clear and the government’s resolve to protect lives, secure prosperity and grow the economy remains unwavering.
“Nigeria remains open for business, anchored in peace, and firmly focused on the future,” the minister said.
