President Muhammadu Buhari (retd.) has shared a New Year letter with Nigerians, released to the media on Wednesday in Abuja, marking the start of a new decade.
He views the 2020s as a chance to build on progress in security, economic diversification, and anti-corruption efforts—priorities that guided his two presidential terms.
Buhari emphasized the importance of the peaceful February 2019 elections, commending voters and leaders who respected the electoral process, including the Independent National Electoral Commission and judiciary.
As he plans to step down in 2023 and not contest future elections, he pledged to enhance electoral systems in Nigeria and the ECOWAS region, where several nations will vote this year.
Focus on Security and Development
As Commander-in-Chief, Buhari highlighted security as his top priority since taking office in 2015, rallying regional neighbors to combat Boko Haram.
He acknowledged ongoing battles against extremists, cultists, and criminal networks, noting progress but stressing the need for peace-building through the North East Development Commission.
The government will collaborate with state governors, neighbors, and international partners to address extremism’s root causes, equipping security forces with advanced training and technology while upholding human rights.
The new Ministry of Police Affairs will boost recruitment and reforms, aiming to curb kidnapping, banditry, and robbery through legal and community engagement.
Economic Growth and Infrastructure
Buhari outlined economic strategies to foster inclusive growth, supported by a new Economic Advisory Council.
Agricultural advancements have reduced import reliance, with new deals from Morocco and Russia enhancing farming inputs.
The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and a National Action Committee will maximize regional trade opportunities.
Infrastructure projects, including the Second Niger Bridge, Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, and Abuja-Kano highway, are progressing, with the Lagos-Kano Rail line advancing in 2020.
Power sector reforms, including a Siemens deal with Germany, aim to improve electricity reliability, while gas projects like AKK and OB3 pipelines will boost domestic use and exports.
Social Welfare and Future Plans
Reaffirming his 2019 Democracy Day pledge to lift 100 million Nigerians out of poverty in a decade, Buhari detailed reforms in education, healthcare, and sanitation, backed by partners like GAVI and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.
The new Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs will enhance social programs, clearing pension arrears.
The 2020 budget, swiftly passed by the Ninth National Assembly, signals executive-legislative harmony.
Planned 2020 projects include 47 road completions, new airport terminals, agricultural mechanization, and rail line launches, aiming to transform Nigeria into a thriving market with visa-on-arrival incentives.
Anti-Corruption and Community Role
Buhari reiterated his anti-corruption stance, promising transparency in returned stolen funds and urging global partners to curb illicit flows.
He thanked Nigerians for their support, encouraging tolerance and peace amid change, and outlined a decade of prosperity ahead with projects like the Mambilla Power project and oil sector reforms to attract investors while protecting communities.
