Tinubu Declares Nigeria’s “Worst Days Are Over” in Independence Day Address

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has assured Nigerians that the nation has overcome its most difficult economic challenges, declaring that “the worst days are over.” Delivering a national broadcast to mark Nigeria’s 65th Independence anniversary on Wednesday, the President said his administration’s bold reforms are beginning to yield results, laying the foundation for sustainable growth and prosperity.

Tinubu emphasized that his government chose “the path of tomorrow over the comfort of today” since taking office in May 2023. According to him, the country’s economy is now showing tangible progress, with inflation easing, oil production rebounding, and non-oil exports expanding at record levels.

“Our macroeconomic progress has proven that the sacrifices of our people have not been in vain,” Tinubu said. “Yesterday’s pains are giving way to relief, and we are laying a new foundation cast in concrete, not on quicksand.”

Economic Reforms and Achievements

The President outlined several milestones achieved over the past two years, crediting reforms such as the removal of fuel subsidies, the unification of foreign exchange rates, and improved fiscal discipline. These measures, he said, have redirected resources toward education, healthcare, infrastructure, and social investment.

Among the highlights, Tinubu announced a 4.23 percent GDP growth rate in the second quarter of 2025, the fastest pace in four years. Inflation dropped to 20.12 percent in August, the lowest in three years, while external reserves climbed to $42.03 billion, the highest since 2019. He also pointed to a five-quarter trade surplus, increased oil production to 1.68 million barrels per day, and a booming stock market that has more than doubled since his administration began.

In addition, Tinubu said over N330 billion had been distributed under social investment programmes, benefiting eight million households. Youth-focused initiatives such as the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND), YouthCred, and the Investment in Digital and Creative Enterprises (iDICE) programme were also highlighted as part of his government’s “Renewed Hope Agenda.”

Security, Youth, and a Message of Hope

On national security, the President praised the sacrifices of the armed forces and security agencies, claiming significant progress in combating terrorism, banditry, and other violent crimes. He said peace had returned to many previously affected communities, with displaced persons beginning to return home.

Tinubu dedicated a portion of his speech to Nigeria’s young people, describing them as the nation’s greatest assets. He urged them to continue innovating and dreaming big, promising continued government support through policies, loans, and creative sector investments.

While acknowledging the current cost-of-living pressures facing citizens, Tinubu stressed that the reforms were necessary to prevent economic collapse. He called on Nigerians to embrace productivity, patronize local industries, and join in the task of nation-building.

“Let us be a nation of producers, not just consumers,” the President urged. “With Almighty God on our side, I can assure you that the dawn of a new, prosperous, self-reliant Nigeria is here.”