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Abuja, October 1, 2025 —
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Wednesday delivered a national broadcast to mark Nigeria’s 65th Independence anniversary, declaring that his administration’s economic reforms have begun to bear fruit, with the worst of the nation’s economic turbulence now behind.

In a passionate address, Tinubu assured Nigerians that the sacrifices borne in the past two years were “not in vain” and that the country is now firmly on a path of recovery and sustainable growth.

Honouring the Past, Embracing the Future

Opening his address with a tribute to Nigeria’s founding fathers and heroines, Tinubu invoked the vision of pioneers such as Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe, Sir Ahmadu Bello, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa, Margaret Ekpo, and Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti.

“Our founding heroes and heroines believed it was Nigeria’s manifest destiny to lead the entire black race as the largest black nation on earth,” Tinubu said. “While we may not have achieved all the lofty dreams of our forebearers, we have not strayed too far from them. In 65 years since our Independence, we have made tremendous progress in economic growth, social cohesion, and physical development.”

The President highlighted Nigeria’s transformation in education, from only 120 secondary schools and two tertiary institutions in 1960 to more than 23,000 secondary schools and over 690 tertiary institutions nationwide by 2024.

Tough Reforms, Emerging Gains

Tinubu admitted that his government inherited “a near-collapsed economy” in May 2023 but opted for sweeping reforms instead of “business as usual.”

“We ended the corrupt fuel subsidies and multiple foreign exchange rates that created massive incentives for a rentier economy,” he said. “We chose the path of tomorrow over the comfort of today. Less than three years later, the seeds of those difficult but necessary decisions are bearing fruit.”

He pointed to key economic milestones:

GDP growth of 4.23% in Q2 2025, the fastest in four years.

Inflation falling to 20.12% in August 2025, the lowest in three years.

Non-oil revenue surpassing ₦20 trillion by August 2025.

External reserves rising to $42.03 billion, the strongest since 2019.

Trade surplus of ₦7.46 trillion in Q2 2025, with non-oil exports growing to 48% of total exports.

“Our debt service-to-revenue ratio has been significantly reduced from 97% to below 50%. The naira has stabilised. We are now selling more to the world than we are buying. This is a fundamental shift that strengthens our currency and creates jobs at home,” Tinubu declared.

Infrastructure, Security, and Social Investment

The President listed ongoing infrastructure projects, including the Kano-Kastina-Maradi rail line, Kaduna-Kano rail line, and the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway, while announcing the approval of $3 billion to complete the Eastern Rail Project.

On social welfare, Tinubu revealed that ₦330 billion has been disbursed to eight million vulnerable households, while 510,000 students have benefited from the Nigeria Education Loan Fund (NELFUND).

Credicorp, a new credit facility, has granted ₦30 billion in affordable loans for vehicles, solar energy, and digital devices, while YouthCred is now supporting NYSC members with settlement loans.

Turning to security, Tinubu hailed the sacrifices of the military and security agencies in the fight against terrorism, separatism, and banditry. “Peace has returned to hundreds of our liberated communities in the North-West and North-East, and thousands of our people have returned safely to their homes,” he affirmed.

A Direct Message to the Youth

Acknowledging young Nigerians as the nation’s greatest asset, Tinubu urged them to “dream big, innovate, and conquer more territories.” He cited government-backed programmes such as the Investment in Digital and Creative Enterprises (iDICE), supported by international partners, as proof of his administration’s commitment to the next generation.

“You are the future and the greatest assets of this blessed country,” the President told the youth. “Our administration, through policies and funding, will continue to give you wings to fly sky-high.”

Message of Hope

Tinubu admitted that Nigerians have endured hardship due to the reforms, but promised better days ahead.

“The biting effects of inflation and the rising cost of living remain a significant concern. However, the alternative of allowing our country to descend into economic chaos or bankruptcy was not an option,” he said.

He insisted that “yesterday’s pains are giving way to relief,” and called for renewed patriotism, productivity, and unity. “Let us be a nation of producers, not just consumers. Let us patronise ‘Made-in-Nigeria’ goods. I say Nigeria first.”

Conclusion: A Call to National Unity

Tinubu concluded his broadcast with a solemn pledge:

“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.”