Nigeria’s federal government is preparing to sell select state-owned assets to private investors starting in 2026, according to Wale Edun, the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy. Speaking during the AlUla Conference for Emerging Market Economies in Saudi Arabia on Monday, Edun confirmed that discussions are ongoing regarding which public assets would be offered for sale and the timeline for the transactions.
“The plan is to offer some assets in 2026,” the finance minister stated, highlighting that the government is currently finalizing the details of the asset sale.
Edun further explained that Nigeria’s ongoing economic reforms have significantly boosted investor confidence, positioning the country as an increasingly competitive destination for capital. He pointed out that these reforms have enhanced Nigeria’s economic environment, making it more attractive to investors.
“What we have put in place has made Nigeria very competitive in terms of the economic conditions and very attractive in terms of the incentives for investors. I think investors are now more comfortable to invest in Nigeria,” Edun added.
The minister also emphasized that the federal government is prioritizing private-public partnerships (PPPs) over direct government control of assets. The government seeks to optimize its resources by inviting private sector investments into the nation’s assets.
“We are interested in private public partnerships, optimisation of our assets by having others come in and invest,” he said.
Edun reiterated the administration’s broader economic objectives, underscoring that investment remains crucial to Nigeria’s long-term growth strategy. He recalled that on January 22, the federal government reaffirmed its commitment to fostering job-rich and inclusive growth, stressing that increased investment is key to raising productivity and expanding the economy.
“Nigeria remains firmly committed to a reform agenda aimed at rebuilding policy credibility and strengthening macroeconomic stability,” the finance minister said, emphasizing that the government is focused on attracting both domestic and foreign long-term investors in preparation for the planned asset sales in 2026.
