Nigeria@65: 10 Key Points From Tinubu’s Independence Day Speech
President Bola Tinubu on Wednesday addressed Nigerians in a nationwide broadcast to mark the country’s 65th Independence anniversary, reflecting on the nation’s journey since 1960 and outlining his administration’s progress and plans.
The President paid tribute to Nigeria’s founding fathers and mothers for their sacrifices, acknowledged the struggles that have shaped the nation, and assured citizens that the “worst is over” as his reforms begin to yield results. He urged Nigerians to embrace productivity, innovation, and unity in building a stronger nation.
Below are 10 key highlights from Tinubu’s speech:
1. Tribute to Founding Heroes: Tinubu honoured nationalists such as Nnamdi Azikiwe, Obafemi Awolowo, Ahmadu Bello, and Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti for their sacrifices towards independence.
2. National Progress: He noted Nigeria’s growth since 1960, with over 23,000 secondary schools and 274 universities compared to just two tertiary institutions at independence.
3. Economic Reforms: Tinubu defended the removal of fuel subsidy and foreign exchange unification as necessary to stabilise the economy and fund key sectors.
4. GDP and Inflation: The President revealed that GDP grew by 4.23% in Q2 2025, while inflation dropped to 20.12% — the lowest in three years.
5. Revenue and Reserves: Non-oil revenue hit a record ₦20 trillion in 2025, while foreign reserves climbed to $42.03 billion, the highest since 2019.
6. Oil and Trade: Oil production rose to 1.68 million barrels per day, and Nigeria recorded a ₦7.46 trillion trade surplus, with non-oil exports now making up 48% of total exports.
7. Infrastructure Projects: He highlighted major projects such as the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway, Sokoto-Badagry Highway, and Kano-Katsina-Maradi rail line.
8. Social Investment: The government has disbursed ₦330 billion to eight million households, introduced NELFUND student loans, and expanded access to credit through Credicorp and YouthCred.
9. Security Gains: Tinubu commended the military for reclaiming communities from terrorists and bandits, stressing that peace is returning to conflict zones.
10. Unity and Productivity: He urged Nigerians to embrace “Nigeria First” by farming, producing locally, paying taxes, and patronising Made-in-Nigeria goods.
The President assured citizens that his administration is laying a solid foundation for prosperity, stressing: “Yesterday’s pains are giving way to relief. The dawn of a new, prosperous, self-reliant Nigeria is here.”
Sodiq Lawal is a passionate and dedicated journalist with a knack for uncovering captivating stories in the bustling metropolis of Osun State and Nigeria at large. He has a versatile reporting style, covering a wide range of topics, from politics , campus, and social issues to arts and culture, seeking impact in all facets of the society.
