On October 1, 2025, President Bola Tinubu delivered his address to mark Nigeria’s 65th Independence anniversary, reflecting on the nation’s progress, challenges, and future path.
Remembering Nigeria’s Founders
The President began by paying tribute to the country’s independence heroes—Nnamdi Azikiwe, Obafemi Awolowo, Ahmadu Bello, Margaret Ekpo, Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti, among others—who envisioned a united, prosperous Nigeria capable of leading Africa and inspiring the black race.
He acknowledged that, although the country has faced civil war, military rule, and political crises, Nigeria has endured and made major strides. From only two higher institutions in 1960, the nation now has hundreds of universities, polytechnics, and colleges, alongside improvements in healthcare, infrastructure, technology, and industry.
Economic Reforms and Progress
Tinubu noted that his administration inherited an economy near collapse in May 2023. Rather than maintain the status quo, he said his government pursued bold reforms, including the removal of fuel subsidies and unification of exchange rates.
According to him, the short-term pains are yielding results:
- GDP Growth: The economy expanded by 4.23% in Q2 2025, beating IMF’s 3.4% forecast.
- Inflation: Fell to 20.12% in August, the lowest in three years.
- Revenue: Non-oil revenue exceeded N20 trillion by August, while debt servicing costs dropped below 50% of revenue.
- Reserves & Trade: External reserves rose to $42.03 billion, and Nigeria recorded five consecutive trade surpluses. Non-oil exports now account for nearly half of foreign earnings.
- Oil & Gas: Production climbed to 1.68 million barrels per day, with local fuel refining restarting after decades.
- Currency Stability: The naira steadied after years of volatility.
- Social Investment: Over N330 billion has been distributed to eight million vulnerable households.
- Infrastructure: Major projects like the Lagos-Calabar Highway and Eastern Rail Line are underway.
- Investor Confidence: Stock market value more than doubled since 2023, and global rating agencies have upgraded Nigeria’s outlook.
Security and National Unity
Tinubu praised the military and security agencies for fighting terrorism, banditry, and separatist violence, noting that many displaced communities in the North-East and North-West had returned home.
Youth Development
He highlighted youth-focused initiatives such as:
- NELFUND student loans, already accessed by over 500,000 students.
- Credicorp loans, supporting citizens with credit for homes, vehicles, and digital tools.
- YouthCred, which provides NYSC members with consumer credit.
- iDICE programme, aimed at empowering young innovators in technology and the creative industry, supported by international partners.
A Call to Action
While admitting that economic reforms have caused temporary hardship, Tinubu urged Nigerians to remain patient and committed to rebuilding the country.
“The true measure of success,” he said, “is not just statistics but the food on our tables, the education our children receive, and the security in our communities. On this anniversary, I call for productivity, innovation, and a renewed faith in Nigeria. Together, we will build a prosperous, self-reliant nation.”
