By Olatunbosun Obafemi
On Nigeria’s 65th Independence anniversary, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu addressed the nation in a lengthy broadcast that sought to strike a balance between celebration and sober reflection. While highlighting his administration’s economic reforms, infrastructure drive, and youth-focused policies, Tinubu also acknowledged the hardships Nigerians face from inflation, insecurity, and years of neglect.
The President began by recalling the sacrifice of Nigeria’s founding fathers – Azikiwe, Awolowo, Balewa, Bello, Margaret Ekpo, and others – whose vision of a united and prosperous nation continues to guide the country’s journey. He noted that despite civil wars, military regimes, and recurring crises, Nigeria has endured and made progress in education, healthcare, technology, and infrastructure since 1960.
Economic Reforms and Achievements
Central to Tinubu’s message was his defence of tough economic reforms. He reminded Nigerians that upon assuming office in May 2023, he inherited what he described as a “near-collapsed economy” distorted by decades of unsustainable policies. His government, he said, chose reform over complacency – removing fuel subsidies, abolishing multiple exchange rates, and redirecting funds into education, healthcare, agriculture, and infrastructure.
The President reported that the economy is showing signs of recovery. Nigeria’s GDP grew by 4.23% in the second quarter of 2025, the fastest in four years. Inflation fell to 20.12% in August, the lowest in three years. Oil production has rebounded to 1.68 million barrels per day, and the nation is now refining petrol locally for the first time in four decades. Foreign reserves stand at $42 billion, the highest since 2019, while tax-to-GDP ratio has risen to 13.5%.
Tinubu further claimed Nigeria is recording trade surpluses, diversifying away from oil dependency, and stabilising the naira after years of volatility. The stock market, he boasted, has soared to record highs, while credit rating agencies have upgraded Nigeria’s outlook.
On social investment, he cited the disbursement of ₦330 billion to eight million poor households and student loan schemes that have reached over 500,000 beneficiaries. The administration’s credit programmes, such as YouthCred and Credicorp, were also flagged as major lifelines for young Nigerians.
Infrastructure Push
Tinubu pointed to ongoing infrastructure projects as evidence of his “Renewed Hope” agenda in motion. The Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway, the Kano-Kaduna rail, and the Eastern Rail Project were among projects cited. He pledged to expand electricity, repair roads, and complete airports and seaports that have suffered years of underinvestment.
Security Gains
The President praised the armed forces for “winning the war” against terrorism, banditry, and separatist violence, declaring that peace has returned to parts of the North-East and North-West. He said many displaced communities have begun to return home, though he admitted insecurity remains a challenge that requires vigilance.
Youth and Innovation
In a section dedicated to young Nigerians, Tinubu described them as “the greatest assets of this blessed country.” He highlighted initiatives like NELFUND student loans, YouthCred for NYSC members, and the iDICE programme for digital and creative entrepreneurs. According to him, these interventions will give young people “wings to fly” in technology, sports, and the arts.
Admitted Failures and Lingering Pains
Despite painting a picture of progress, the President admitted reforms have come with “temporary pains.” Inflation and the high cost of living remain burdensome, while infrastructure gaps in power, transport, and education persist. He conceded that decades of poor planning mean Nigerians still lack stable electricity, world-class highways, and competitive airports.
Critics argue that while macroeconomic indicators look promising, ordinary Nigerians have yet to feel tangible relief. Food prices remain high, unemployment bites, and many families are struggling to meet daily needs. Tinubu’s claim that “the worst is over” has been met with scepticism in some quarters, where citizens insist that hardship has deepened under his watch.
A Message of Hope
Ending on an optimistic note, Tinubu called on Nigerians to embrace productivity, innovation, and patronage of made-in-Nigeria goods. “Let us be a nation of producers, not just consumers,” he urged. He insisted that with God’s help, Nigeria was turning the corner toward prosperity and self-reliance.
The Verdict
Tinubu’s 65th Independence broadcast showcased a President eager to portray himself as a reformer who inherited a broken economy and is now laying foundations for growth. His administration can point to rising revenues, fiscal stability, improved oil output, and ambitious youth programmes as notable achievements.
Yet, the speech also underscored the distance between government statistics and the lived reality of many Nigerians. While Tinubu insists that “yesterday’s pains are giving way to relief,” millions still grapple with rising costs, joblessness, and insecurity.
As Nigeria marks 65 years of independence, Tinubu’s message of hope sits at the intersection of achievement and failure – progress on paper, but a future still clouded by hardship and the heavy task of turning reforms into real improvements in people’s daily lives.
