TEXT OF PRESIDENT BOLA AHMED TINUBU’S INDEPENDENCE DAY ADDRESS, WITH THE THEME “FROM REFORMS TO PROSPERITY”
Tinubu: Nigeria Has Entered Age of Prosperity, No Looking Back
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has declared that Nigeria has moved beyond the difficult phase of economic reforms and is now entering an “age of prosperity.”
Tinubu made the declaration in his Independence Day address to Nigerians, marking the country’s 66th anniversary of independence.
The President said Nigeria had endured years of economic hardship, insecurity, political upheaval and poor policy choices, but maintained that the country had now corrected its economic direction.
According to him, the reforms introduced by his administration were necessary to address longstanding weaknesses in the economy.
Tinubu said Nigeria’s economy has grown by more than four per cent this year, while inflation has declined from its peak, oil theft has reduced, foreign reserves have improved and the foreign exchange market has stabilised.
He also highlighted Nigeria’s record non-oil export revenue of more than $6 billion in 2025, describing it as evidence of growing economic activity among Nigerian businesses.
Focus shifts to prosperity
Tinubu said the government’s priority has now shifted from economic reforms to creating “shared and widespread prosperity.”
He said his administration would focus on reducing the cost of living by improving agricultural production, expanding mechanisation, investing in storage and transportation, and developing roads, railways and ports.
The President also promised greater support for industries, businesses and young Nigerians through improved infrastructure, financing, digital connectivity and skills development.
He said the government would use Nigeria’s gas resources to support industrial growth and encourage local production.
Support for vulnerable Nigerians
Tinubu acknowledged that millions of Nigerians are still struggling with food, education, healthcare and transportation costs.
He said the government would strengthen social support programmes and improve the National Social Register to ensure assistance reaches poorer households.
He also highlighted the Nigerian Education Loan Fund and CREDICORP as initiatives designed to expand access to education and consumer credit.
According to him, the government will continue working with state and local governments to strengthen primary healthcare, basic education and other essential services.
Tinubu said the government’s goal was not merely to manage poverty but to “defeat it.”
Concluding his address, the President urged Nigerians to remain hopeful and united, declaring that the country had “corrected its course.”
He said: “The age of reform has done its work. Now begins the age of prosperity.”
Tinubu ended with a call for Nigerians to move forward together, saying: “Our destination is in sight. Our foundations are strong. Our direction is clear. So let us go forward. No looking back.”
Key Takeaways
Tinubu says Nigeria has moved from the reform era into an “age of prosperity.”
He says the economy has grown by more than 4% this year.
Inflation has fallen from its peak, while foreign reserves and the forex market have stabilised.
Nigeria recorded more than $6 billion in non-oil export revenue in 2025.
Government plans to reduce living costs through agriculture, infrastructure and industrial development.
Tinubu says jobs, enterprise and youth development will remain government priorities.
Social programmes, student loans and consumer credit will be expanded to support vulnerable Nigerians.
The President urged Nigerians to look ahead and remain committed to the country’s future.