2026: A Year of Renewal, Impact and Rising Expectations

As 2026 unfolds, expectations across Nigeria and beyond are shaped by a shared sense of renewal, purpose and forward momentum. From governance and economic reform to healthcare, media, infrastructure and personal growth, there is a collective belief that the new year will reward preparation, collaboration and resilience. Leaders, professionals and institutions are entering 2026 with optimism grounded in action: strengthening systems, deepening partnerships, embracing innovation and turning long held intentions into measurable impact. After a period of turbulence, the year ahead is widely seen as a moment for visibility, growth and fresh beginnings, when hard work begins to yield results and hope is translated into progress. Chiemelie Ezeobi reports 

Rear Admiral Ayo Olugbode: Hydrographer of the Federation/CEO National Hydrographic Agency

As we step into 2026, the National Hydrographic Agency remains committed to advancing Nigeria’s maritime interests through cutting-edge hydrographic surveys in line with global S-100 Electronic Navigational Chart (ENC) standards, robust geospatial data management, and enhanced maritime safety initiatives.

We look forward to collaborating with national, regional & international stakeholders to drive quantum growth in the Renewed Hope Agenda for blue economy aspirations and support national development. Here’s to a productive and impactful 2026!

Dr. Adedolapo Fasawe: Mandate Secretary, Health Services and Environment Secretariat, FCT

We are building a healthier and greener capital and delivering renewed hope for Abuja, which was was conceived as a model capital—orderly, inclusive, and forward-looking. Our responsibility at the Health Services and Environment Secretariat (HSES) is to ensure that its health system and environment reflect that vision: resilient, equitable, and responsive to the needs of all residents, especially the most vulnerable. 

Over the past two years, guided by the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the clear policy direction of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT)Administration under the leadership of Barrister Chief Nyesom Wike, we have focused on turning intent into impact.

From saving lives through emergency and critical care investment, to advancing women’s health and protecting the vulnerable expanding access, affordability, and community outreach; strengthening the health workforce and primary health care foundation; and linking health, environment, and system sustainability, these achievements and forward-looking investments reflect a simple but firm commitment: to make Abuja a place where quality healthcare is accessible, health workers are valued, and the environment supports, rather than undermines wellbeing. The work continues, but the direction is unmistakable, and the results are increasingly visible.

Amina Omoike: Group Head, Media Services, 

Mediacraft Associates

‎My expectation for 2026 is one of purposeful impact – where I will grow continuously, contribute to meaningful conversations, and show excellence in all I do.
‎
‎Professionally, my major expectation is career growth. As a practitioner in the media / PR industry, I am faced with rapid change and new innovations. So, this year, I look forward to improving on my craft and helping my clients tell more accurate, insightful, and people-centred stories that not only inform and educate; but also inspire others.
‎
‎I also hope for stronger collaborations with my media partners. For me, building trust within the media circle remains critical.
‎
‎On a personal note, I expect to be more intentional about my life and matters that relate to me. We know the demands of media work can be intense, so I am hopeful for a year where I will prioritise my health and enhance work-life balance. Family is very important to me!
‎
‎
‎
‎

Nosa Iyamu: IVI PR, CEO

As we enter 2026, Nigerians must prioritize economic mathematics over emotional sentiments. The full implementation of the Nigeria Tax Act is the cornerstone of this shift, harmonizing fragmented codes and exempting those earning under ₦800,000. To succeed, a national orientation campaign is vital; fiscal literacy will be the bridge between confusion and compliance.

With inflation cooling to 14.45%, a fragile window has opened to stimulate the real economy. The “Renewed Hope” agenda must now manifest as food on the table. By addressing insecurity in the Middle Belt and North-East, the government can stabilize prices and ensure the projected 4.49% GDP growth is felt by every citizen.

Economic diversification in energy and health, alongside banking recapitalization, promises much-needed liquidity. However, infrastructure remains the backbone of recovery. To empower SMEs, “access to scale” through the 4,000 km high-speed rail and expanded digital fiber optics is non-negotiable. These are not vanity projects; they are essential links between markets like Aba and Kano.

As the 2026 elections approach, a safe environment and a digital-first process under the Electoral Act 2025 are critical for investment stability. Ultimately, success rests with State Governors. We need “competitive federalism,” where performance data is public and measurable.

By aligning state spending with federal goals, Nigeria can transform 2026 from a year of mere “function” into an undeniable breakthrough. Let us stay optimistic.

James Ladi Williams: Founder and President of Akada

This is the year of upshot growth, the year when seeds that were buried and seemed to have died and forgotten will finally bear fruit. It is the season when unseen labour, hard work and painful struggles that once felt wasted will reveal their purpose.

In 2026, small beginnings will grow into big forests, and quiet efforts will lead us into rooms we once only imagined. There will be impact across the world, because while 2025 was a year of turmoil, so 2026 is a year of fresh morning and new beginnings.

I feel deeply hopeful about this year. I am encouraging myself and others to believe again. This year, people need to come out of hiding, and to step forward with confidence. What God is building will see the light of day.

Odita Sunday Udemaguna: CEO Razor Media Group

My expectation this year is to consolidate my position as a respected media powerbroker, agenda setter, and institution builder within Nigeria’s media and public affairs ecosystem.

I expect Razor Media Group to operate as a profitable, well-structured media enterprise with diversified revenue streams, advertising, content partnerships, strategic communications, events, and digital products.

I also intend to Strengthen Razor Media Group into a trusted, nationally recognised media brand known for credibility, development reporting and responsible journalism, just as I intend to become a leading voice in public discourse, policy communication, and governance advocacy.

This year, I will expand my media influence beyond reporting into strategic communication, media consulting, political communication, and reputation management. I will also be publishing and documenting more national narratives, spotlighting silent heroes, reformers, and institutions shaping Nigeria’s progress.

Finally, I will build strong institutional relationships with government agencies, private sector leaders, civil society, and international partners and also mentor young journalists and media entrepreneurs, thereby contributing to the next generation of ethical and professional media practitioners.