Dawn of a new, prosperous, self-reliant Nigeria is here, Tinubu says on 65th Independence anniversary

President Bola Tinubu has declared that the dawn of a new, prosperous, self-reliant Nigeria is here.

Delivering his national broadcast to mark the country’s 65th Independence anniversary, Tinubu reflected on the country’s journey since 1960, highlighting the nation’s progress, citing significant growth in economic development, social cohesion, and physical infrastructure.

“With Almighty God on our side, I can assure you that the dawn of a new, prosperous, self-reliant Nigeria is here,” Tinubu said.

Tinubu noted that despite challenges, Nigeria had made tremendous progress, with access to better education and healthcare becoming more widespread.

“I am pleased to report that we have finally turned the corner. The worst is over, I say.

“Yesterday’s pains are giving way to relief. I salute your endurance, support, and understanding.

“I will continue to work for you and justify the confidence you reposed in me to steer the ship of our nation to a safe harbour,” the President said.

Tinubu hailed the resilience of Nigerians, saying the country had survived a civil war, military rule and political crises, and is still striving to build “a more perfect union.”

The President emphasized the importance of economic reforms, which have led to increased revenue, improved fiscal health, and a stronger foreign reserve position.

These reforms, Tinubu said, have enabled the government to redirect funds towards targeted investment in the real economy and social programmes for the most vulnerable.

He argued, “In resetting our country for sustainable growth, we ended the corrupt fuel subsidies and multiple foreign exchange rates that created massive incentives for a rentier economy, benefiting only a tiny minority.

“Our administration has redirected the economy towards a more inclusive path, channelling money to fund education, healthcare, national security, agriculture, and critical economic infrastructure.”

The President highlighted the administration’s efforts to enhance national security, ensuring a safe environment for economic growth.

Tinubu praised the officers and men of the armed forces and other security agencies for their tireless efforts in keeping the nation safe.

“They are winning the war against terrorism, banditry and other violent crimes. We see their victories in their blood and sweat to stamp out Boko Haram terror in the North-East, IPOB/ESN terror in the South-East and banditry and kidnapping,” he said, adding that peace had returned to hundreds of communities and thousands of displaced persons had gone back home.

The President emphasized the importance of empowering the youth, citing initiatives such as NELFUND, Credicorp, and YouthCred.

These initiatives, Tinubu said, aim to support young people in their educational pursuits, provide affordable loans, and promote entrepreneurship.

He said, “I have a message for our young people. You are the future and the greatest assets of this blessed country. You must continue to dream big, innovate, and conquer more territories in your various fields of science, technology, sports, and the art and creative sector. Our administration, through policies and funding, will continue to give you wings to fly sky-high. We created NELFUND to support students with loans for their educational pursuits.

“Approximately 510,000 students across 36 states and the FCT have benefited from this initiative, covering 228 higher institutions. As of September 10, the total loan disbursed was N99.5 billion, while the upkeep allowance stood at N44.7 billion.

“Credicorp, another initiative of our administration, has granted 153,000 Nigerians N30 billion affordable loans for vehicles, solar energy, home upgrades, digital devices, and more.

“YouthCred, which I promised last June, is a reality, with tens of thousands of NYSC members now active beneficiaries of consumer credit for resettlement.”

“Under our Renewed Hope Agenda, we promised to build a Nigeria where every young person, regardless of background, has an equitable opportunity to access a better future—thus, the Investment in Digital and Creative Enterprises (iDICE) programme. The Bank of Industry is driving the programme, in collaboration with the African Development Bank, the French Development Agency, and the Islamic Development Bank. This initiative is at the cusp of implementation. Over the last two years, we have collaborated with our partners to launch the programme, supporting our young builders and dreamers in the technology and creative sectors,” the president added.

The President noted that the administration is working diligently to boost agricultural production and ensure food security, reducing food costs.

Tinubu highlighted the nation’s progress in diversifying its economy, with non-oil exports now representing 48% of the country’s export trade.

The President emphasized the importance of nation-building, urging Nigerians to join hands in promoting productivity, innovation, and enterprise.

Tinubu called on sub-national entities to partner with the federal government in nation-building, promoting Made-in-Nigeria goods and paying taxes.

He added, “Let us be a nation of producers, not just consumers. Let us farm our land and build factories to process our produce.

“Let us patronise ‘Made-in-Nigeria’ goods. I say Nigeria first. Let us pay our taxes. Finally, let all hands be on deck.”