President Bola Tinubu on Wednesday assured Nigerians that the nation has overcome its toughest economic challenges and is now on the path to recovery.
In his address marking Nigeria’s 65th Independence anniversary, Tinubu reflected on the struggles, sacrifices, and achievements of the nation since gaining self-rule in 1960.
He paid tribute to the founding fathers and nationalists, including Nnamdi Azikiwe, Obafemi Awolowo, Ahmadu Bello, Tafawa Balewa, Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti, and others, describing their dream of a united and prosperous Nigeria as a guiding light for his administration.
The President highlighted significant strides made under his government’s reform agenda, stressing that tough but necessary decisions, such as the removal of fuel subsidy and unification of foreign exchange rates, have begun yielding results.
“We have finally turned the corner. The worst is over. Yesterday’s pains are giving way to relief,” Tinubu declared.
According to him, Nigeria’s economy grew by 4.23% in the second quarter of 2025—its fastest in four years—while inflation dropped to 20.12%, the lowest level in three years.
He also disclosed that the nation’s external reserves have risen to $42.03 billion, trade surplus has expanded to ₦7.46 trillion, and oil production rebounded to 1.68 million barrels per day.
Tinubu listed 12 key economic milestones of his administration, including record-breaking non-oil revenue, reduction of debt service-to-revenue ratio, restoration of fiscal health, growth in solid minerals and agriculture, and significant investments in transport and infrastructure.
On security, the President praised the armed forces for their sacrifices, noting that peace has returned to many communities previously ravaged by terrorism and banditry. He pledged continued support for security agencies to consolidate on recent gains.
Addressing Nigeria’s youth, Tinubu described them as the nation’s “greatest asset” and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to education, innovation, and job creation. He pointed to initiatives such as student loans under NELFUND, Credicorp consumer credit, YouthCred for NYSC members, and the iDICE programme for the creative and tech industries.
While acknowledging the hardships Nigerians have faced, particularly the rising cost of living, the President insisted that reforms were necessary to avert economic collapse.
“The true measure of success will be in the food on our families’ tables, the quality of education our children receive, the electricity in our homes, and the security in our communities,” he said.
Tinubu concluded with a call for collective responsibility in nation-building, urging citizens to embrace productivity, patronise local products, pay taxes, and believe in Nigeria’s potential.
“On this 65th anniversary of our independence, my message is hope and a call to action,” he stated adding that, “With Almighty God on our side, I can assure you that the dawn of a new, prosperous, self-reliant Nigeria is here.”
