Abuja – President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Wednesday led the nation in commemorating Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary, paying tribute to the sacrifices of the country’s founding fathers and reaffirming Nigeria’s place as the beacon of hope for the black race.
In a nationwide broadcast, the President reflected on Nigeria’s journey since 1960, acknowledging strides made in education, healthcare, infrastructure, and economic growth. He noted, however, that the nation has also endured trials including civil war, years of military rule, and political upheavals.
Since taking office in May 2023, Tinubu said his administration has pursued far-reaching reforms to reset the economy. He cited the removal of fuel subsidies, unification of exchange rates, and reallocation of funds to priority sectors such as education, healthcare, infrastructure, and social welfare. Despite initial hardship, he assured Nigerians that “the worst is over,” pointing to signs of recovery in key economic indicators.
On infrastructure, the President outlined ongoing expansion of rail networks, federal highways, ports, and airports aimed at unlocking trade and investment. He highlighted social protection measures, including the disbursement of ₦330 billion to eight million vulnerable households, as well as new youth-focused initiatives such as the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND), Credicorp, YouthCred, and the iDICE programme designed to empower young entrepreneurs.
Tinubu also addressed the nation’s security challenges, declaring that steady gains have been recorded in the fight against terrorism and banditry. He credited the armed forces for recent successes that, according to him, have restored confidence in affected communities.
While acknowledging that his policies have brought short-term pain, the President maintained they are essential to building a more self-reliant and prosperous nation. He urged Nigerians to embrace productivity, innovation, and patronage of local goods, stressing that the real measure of progress will be seen in food security, quality education, stable electricity, and sustained national security.
“Together, we shall overcome our challenges,” Tinubu said, expressing optimism that Nigeria’s 65th anniversary marks the beginning of a new era of resilience and renewal.
