Emerged Information on the National Economic Council Meeting Revealed

The National Economic Council (NEC) has taken a significant step towards shaping Nigeria's future by approving the Renewed Hope Medium-term plan for the period 2026-2030. This ambitious plan aims to focus efforts on job creation, infrastructure development, food security, human capital development, and social protection.

Vice President Kashim Shettima presided over the 151st NEC meeting where the approval was given. The decision was reached following wide consultations with various stakeholders, including the three tiers of government, political parties, private sector entities, civil society, youth groups, labor unions, traditional leaders, and others.

The Renewed Hope Medium-term plan is seen as a crucial link between ongoing government reforms and Nigeria Agenda 2050, the country's long-term economic blueprint. It is expected to consolidate current reforms and address Nigeria's new socio-economic realities, as explained by the Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Atiku Bagudu.

In the fight against polio, the council also approved strengthening vaccination coverage in Nigeria. The Gombe State Governor, Mohammed Inuwa Yahaya, heads the NEC Committee on Polio Eradication. The efforts have yielded positive results, with cases of the circulating variant type 2 polio virus dropping sharply in 2025 compared to last year. Kano, Katsina states, and Zamfara have achieved reductions of over 80 percent, while Zamfara has recorded zero new infections.

Vaccination coverage improved to 84 percent by June, with millions of children immunised in high-risk states. Campaigns also delivered other health services such as nutrition for pregnant women and malaria prevention. The council approved upcoming immunisation drives, including a September 11-14 campaign in high-risk states and a nationwide integrated vaccination campaign in October covering children under 14 against polio, measles, rubella, and malaria.

Structures such as a National Steering Committee and technical sub-committees will be co-chaired by representatives from both the government and the private sector to guide the exercise. These committees will play a crucial role in shaping the implementation of the Renewed Hope Medium-term plan.

The current development plan is set to end in December 2025, necessitating a seamless transition to the 2026-2030 plan. The council's approval marks a significant step towards ensuring a smooth transition and setting the stage for a prosperous future for Nigeria.