President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, in his third Independence Day broadcast, marked Nigeria’s 65th anniversary, urging reflection on the sacrifices of the founding fathers.
He called for unity, resilience, and renewed drive to achieve “Nigeria’s manifest destiny as Africa’s leader.”
TRIBUTE TO HEROES
The President honoured nationalist icons such as Herbert Macaulay, Nnamdi Azikiwe, Tafawa Balewa, Obafemi Awolowo, Ahmadu Bello, and Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti. He said, “Their vision of a strong, prosperous, and united Nigeria must remain our guide to greatness.”
NATION’S JOURNEY
Tinubu admitted Nigeria has faced political crises, military regimes, and even civil war. Yet, he stressed, “We weathered every storm with courage and uncommon determination,” noting progress in education, healthcare, manufacturing, ICT, aviation, and infrastructure since independence.
EDUCATION GROWTH
Highlighting achievements, Tinubu recalled only two tertiary institutions existed in 1960. By 2024, Nigeria had 274 universities, 183 polytechnics, and 236 colleges of education. “We must celebrate access to better schools, healthcare, and opportunity for every generation,” he said.
ECONOMIC REFORMS
The President said his government inherited “a near-collapsed economy” in 2023 but chose reform. Fuel subsidy removal and FX unification redirected funds to education, healthcare, security, and infrastructure. “We chose tomorrow over today’s comfort, and the results are showing,” he declared.
INFRASTRUCTURE PUSH
Tinubu emphasised massive investments in transport, roads, broadband, and energy. He added, “We are racing against time to build roads, schools, and hospitals for our people, while correcting decades of underinvestment.” He urged states to match federal efforts in service delivery.
ECONOMIC RECOVERY
Citing positive indicators, Tinubu said GDP grew 4.23% in Q2 2025, the fastest in four years. Inflation dropped to 20.12%. “Yesterday’s pains are giving way to relief. The worst is over,” he assured Nigerians, saluting their patience and endurance.
REFORM MILESTONES
Tinubu listed 12 milestones including record non-oil revenues, reduced debt ratios, improved reserves, and restored fiscal health. He noted, “We are now a net exporter with trade surplus for five consecutive quarters. Nigeria is selling more to the world than buying.”
OIL AND ENERGY
He announced crude production increased to 1.68m barrels per day, with refined PMS locally for the first time in 40 years. “Nigeria is now Africa’s leading exporter of aviation fuel,” he said, highlighting stronger energy independence and foreign exchange inflows.
SECURITY GAINS
On security, Tinubu praised troops fighting terrorism and banditry. “Peace has returned to hundreds of communities in the North. We must salute their courage on behalf of a grateful nation,” he said, urging continued support for security agencies across the federation.
YOUTH EMPOWERMENT
Addressing youth, Tinubu described them as Nigeria’s greatest assets. He mentioned NELFUND, Credicorp, and YouthCred loan schemes worth billions. “You must dream big and innovate. Our government is giving you wings to fly through funding, digital enterprises, and education support.”
DIGITAL FUTURE
The President announced progress in the iDICE programme for creative and digital industries, supported by AfDB, French and Islamic Development Banks. “We are building opportunities where every Nigerian youth can thrive in science, technology, and the arts,” he emphasised.
MESSAGE OF HOPE
Tinubu admitted reforms caused temporary hardship but insisted they were necessary. “The true measure of success is food on the table, electricity in our homes, and safety in our communities,” he assured, promising continued investments in critical human needs.
CALL TO ACTION
Concluding, Tinubu urged unity, productivity, and patriotism. “Let us farm our land, build our factories, and patronise Made-in-Nigeria. Nigeria first. Let us believe once more in the boundless potential of our great nation,” he said, marking 65 years of independence.
Editing by Nelia Andione, Muzha Kucha and Tijjani Ibrahim
About The Author
