As Nigeria marks a significant milestone of 65 years of independence, President Bola Tinubu has taken to the national stage to reflect on the country’s journey and outline his administration’s vision for a brighter future.
In a broadcast to the nation on Wednesday, Tinubu declared: “We have finally turned the corner. The worst is over, I say. Yesterday’s pains are giving way to relief.”
He emphasized the positive impact of his administration’s economic reforms.
While noting the country’s progress, the president acknowledged the challenges faced, expressing optimism about Nigeria’s potential for growth and development.
With a theme of “Nigeria @ 65: All Hands on Deck for a Greater Nation,” the celebration underscores the importance of collective effort in nation-building.
According to him, these reforms, though difficult, were necessary to position Nigeria for sustainable growth.
“We chose the path of reform. We chose the path of tomorrow over the comfort of today,” he added, highlighting the administration’s commitment to long-term prosperity.
Tinubu pointed out that his administration has made notable strides in various sectors, including economic stabilization, infrastructure development, and security enhancement.
“The government has implemented policies aimed at boosting agricultural production, ensuring food security, and reducing food costs.
“Additionally, initiatives such as NELFUND, Credicorp, and YouthCred have been introduced to support students, young entrepreneurs, and vulnerable populations,” Tinubu said.
Full Broadcast Message by President Tinubu;
Fellow Nigerians,
Today marks the 65th anniversary of our great nation’s Independence. As we reflect on the significance of this day and our journey of nationhood since October 1, 1960, let us remember the sacrifice, devotion, and grand dream of our founding fathers.
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. For decades, the promise of our Independence has been tested by profound social, economic, and political challenges, and we have survived.
In 65 years since our Independence, we have made tremendous progress in economic growth, social cohesion, and physical development. Our economy has experienced significant growth since 1960. Nigerians today have access to better education and healthcare than in 1960.
We’ve had our share of challenges, but we’ve weathered every storm and overcome every challenge with courage, grit, and uncommon determination. Our administration has embarked on a courageous, fundamental reform path to reset our country for sustainable growth.
We’ve ended the corrupt fuel subsidies and multiple foreign exchange rates that created massive incentives for a rentier economy, benefiting only a tiny minority. Our administration has redirected the economy towards a more inclusive path, channelling money to fund education, healthcare, national security, agriculture, and critical economic infrastructure.
Under our leadership, our economy is recovering fast, and the reforms we started over two years ago are delivering tangible results. The second quarter 2025 Gross Domestic Product grew by 4.23%—Nigeria’s fastest pace in four years—and outpaced the 3.4 per cent projected by the International Monetary Fund.
We’ve achieved 12 remarkable economic milestones, including a record-breaking increase in non-oil revenue, restored fiscal health, and a stronger foreign reserve position. Our tax-to-GDP ratio has risen to 13.5 per cent from less than 10 per cent.
We’re working diligently to enhance national security, ensuring our economy experiences improved growth and performance. The officers and men of our armed forces and other security agencies are working tirelessly and making significant sacrifices to keep us safe.
To our young people, I say you are the future and the greatest assets of this blessed country. You must continue to dream big, innovate, and conquer more territories in your various fields.
We’ve come a long way, but we still have a long way to go. Let’s work together to build a nation of producers, not just consumers. Let’s farm our land and build factories to process our produce. Let’s patronise ‘Made-in-Nigeria’ goods. I say Nigeria first. Let’s pay our taxes.
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. Amen.
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