From Struggle To Progress: Tinubu Outlines Vision For A Stronger, Safer Nigeria At 65th Independence

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu delivered a national broadcast on Wednesday, October 1, 2025, commemorating Nigeria’s 65th Independence Day anniversary. In his address, the President reflected on the country’s journey since gaining independence from colonial rule in 1960, highlighting the sacrifices and vision of Nigeria’s founding fathers and nationalists who aspired for a strong, united, and prosperous nation.

Tinubu acknowledged the challenges Nigeria has faced over the decades, including civil war, military rule, and political crises, but emphasized that the nation has made significant strides in social, economic, and infrastructural development. He noted that access to education and healthcare has expanded substantially, citing the growth from 120 secondary schools in 1960 to over 23,000 by 2024, and from two tertiary institutions to hundreds of universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education.

The President outlined key achievements of his administration since assuming office in May 2023, describing efforts to reform the economy and redirect resources toward education, healthcare, security, agriculture, and critical infrastructure. He reported progress in fiscal health, foreign reserves, non-oil exports, and trade balance, as well as stabilization of the Naira and advancements in domestic oil refining.

Highlighting national security, Tinubu praised the armed forces and security agencies for their role in combating terrorism, banditry, and kidnapping, ensuring peace in previously affected regions. He also addressed the youth, emphasizing their role as the country’s future and citing initiatives such as NELFUND, Credicorp, YouthCred, and the Investment in Digital and Creative Enterprises (iDICE) programme to support education, entrepreneurship, and innovation.

Acknowledging ongoing economic challenges, including inflation and the rising cost of living, the President stressed that recent reforms have laid a solid foundation for sustainable growth and stability. He urged Nigerians to embrace productivity, innovation, and the consumption of locally made goods while fulfilling civic responsibilities such as tax compliance.

Tinubu concluded with a message of hope and unity, expressing confidence in a prosperous, self-reliant Nigeria and wishing citizens a happy 65th Independence Day.