Independence Day: Tinubu Hails Nigerians’ Resilience, Promises Prosperity

By Onoja Baba, Nigeria 

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Wednesday addressed Nigerians in a nationwide broadcast to mark the country’s 65th Independence anniversary, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to economic reforms, national security, and youth empowerment.

Speaking from the Presidential Villa in Abuja, Tinubu paid tribute to Nigeria’s founding fathers, including Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe, Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, and Sir Ahmadu Bello, describing them as visionaries who dreamt of a prosperous and united nation.

He acknowledged the sacrifices Nigerians have made amid tough economic reforms, assuring citizens that “the worst is over” as his administration’s policies begin to yield tangible results.

“Our economy is recovering fast, and the reforms we started over two years ago are delivering results. GDP grew by 4.23% in Q2 2025, the fastest pace in four years, while inflation declined to 20.12% in August, the lowest in three years,” Tinubu stated.

The president outlined 12 key achievements of his administration, including record non-oil revenue, stabilisation of the naira, a stronger foreign reserves position, and a trade surplus driven by growth in non-oil exports. He also cited expansion in infrastructure projects such as the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway, the Kano-Kaduna rail line, and the Sokoto-Badagry Highway.

On national security, Tinubu praised the gallantry of Nigeria’s armed forces in the fight against terrorism, banditry, and secessionist violence, noting that “peace has returned to hundreds of liberated communities.”

He also addressed young Nigerians directly, highlighting initiatives like the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND), Credicorp, YouthCred, and the forthcoming iDICE programme designed to support education, entrepreneurship, and innovation.

While acknowledging that reforms have caused temporary pains, the president assured citizens that the sacrifices would not be in vain. “The accurate measure of our success will be in the food on our tables, the quality of education our children receive, the electricity in our homes, and the security in our communities,” he said.

Tinubu urged Nigerians to embrace productivity, patronise made-in-Nigeria goods, and support the government’s development drive.

“On this 65th Independence Anniversary, my message is hope and a call to action. With Almighty God on our side, I can assure you that the dawn of a new, prosperous, self-reliant Nigeria is here,” the president declared.