…Says 65th independence anniversary marks dawn of a new era
Our Reporter, Abuja
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, on Tuesday, assured Nigerians that the painful reforms introduced by his administration were beginning to yield positive results, declaring that the country had “turned the corner” towards economic recovery and sustainable growth.
Delivering a national broadcast to mark Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary, the President highlighted key achievements of his government in the past 28 months, while pledging to consolidate the gains in economic reforms, security, and youth empowerment.
Tinubu recalled the sacrifices of Nigeria’s founding fathers and acknowledged the challenges the nation had faced since 1960—including civil war, military rule, and political crises—saying the resilience of the people had kept the country united.
“Yesterday’s pains are giving way to relief,” Tinubu said.
“I salute your endurance, support, and understanding. I will continue to work for you and justify the confidence you reposed in me.”
Economic Reforms and Gains
The President noted that his administration inherited “a near-collapsed economy,” but chose a difficult reform path instead of “business as usual.” He cited the removal of fuel subsidy, foreign exchange unification, and fiscal discipline as measures that had freed up resources for investment in infrastructure, education, healthcare, and social programmes.
According to Tinubu, the economy grew by 4.23 percent in the second quarter of 2025—the fastest in four years—while inflation dropped to 20.12 percent in August, the lowest in three years.
He listed 12 major economic milestones, including:
- Record-breaking non-oil revenue of over N20 trillion by August 2025.
- A stronger foreign reserve position at $42.03 billion.
- Nigeria’s first trade surplus in five consecutive quarters, driven by a 173% increase in manufactured exports.
- Oil production recovery to 1.68 million barrels per day.
- Stabilisation of the Naira and improved sovereign credit ratings.
- N330 billion disbursed to support eight million vulnerable households under social investment programmes.
- Massive investments in transport infrastructure, with key rail and road projects nearing completion.
“The worst is over,” the President declared, assuring that the government would channel saved resources into food security, power supply, education, and healthcare.
Security and National Unity
Tinubu praised the armed forces for their sacrifices in restoring peace in several parts of the country. He said troops were winning the war against Boko Haram in the North-East, IPOB militancy in the South-East, and banditry in the North-West.
“Peace has returned to hundreds of our liberated communities, and thousands of our people have returned safely to their homes,” he stated.
Youth and Empowerment
Addressing Nigerian youths, Tinubu described them as “the greatest assets of this blessed country.” He highlighted initiatives such as the Nigeria Education Loan Fund (NELFUND), which has supported over 510,000 students with nearly N100 billion, Credicorp’s N30 billion consumer credit programme, and YouthCred loans for NYSC members.
He also reaffirmed the government’s commitment to the Investment in Digital and Creative Enterprises (iDICE) programme to empower young innovators.
Call to Action
While admitting that the cost of living remained a major concern, Tinubu urged citizens to embrace productivity, innovation, and patronage of locally made goods.
“Let us be a nation of producers, not just consumers. Let us farm our land, build factories to process our produce, and patronise ‘Made-in-Nigeria’ goods,” he said.
Concluding his address, Tinubu expressed optimism about Nigeria’s future: “With Almighty God on our side, I can assure you that the dawn of a new, prosperous, self-reliant Nigeria is here. Happy 65th Independence Anniversary, and may God continue to bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.”
