Honouring Nigeria’s Founding Fathers
Today marks the 65th anniversary of Nigeria’s Independence. As we reflect on this milestone, we remember October 1, 1960 — the day our founding fathers accepted the instruments of self-rule with dreams of building a strong, united, and prosperous nation.
Heroes such as Herbert Macaulay, Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe, Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, Sir Ahmadu Bello, Margaret Ekpo, Anthony Enahoro, Ladoke Akintola, Michael Okpara, Aminu Kano, and Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti believed Nigeria was destined to lead the black race as the largest black nation on earth.
Progress Amid Challenges
Though our nation has faced civil war, military rule, and political crises, Nigeria has endured with resilience. Since independence, we have grown in education, healthcare, infrastructure, and technology. From just two higher institutions in 1960, we now boast over 274 universities, 183 polytechnics, and 236 colleges of education.
The promise of independence has been tested, yet Nigeria continues to strive for a “more perfect union” where every citizen can find purpose and fulfilment.
A Call to Nation-Building
Since assuming office in May 2023, my administration has committed itself to the unfinished task of nation-building. We inherited a struggling economy weakened by decades of fiscal mismanagement. Faced with the choice of maintaining the status quo or embracing bold reforms, we chose reform.
By removing fuel subsidies and harmonising multiple exchange rates, we redirected resources to education, healthcare, security, agriculture, and infrastructure. These reforms are tough, but they are laying the foundation for inclusive and sustainable growth.
‘We’re Racing Against Time’
Fellow Nigerians, we are racing against time to build the future we desire. Our roads, schools, hospitals, ports, and electricity infrastructure lag behind because past leaders failed to invest adequately. My administration is determined to correct this and ensure future generations inherit a stronger nation.
I assure you: the worst is over. The pains of yesterday are giving way to relief, and together, we will steer Nigeria to safe harbour.
Economic Milestones Achieved
In just over two years, our reforms have produced remarkable gains:
- Revenue Growth – Non-oil revenue surpassed N20 trillion by August 2025.
- Fiscal Health Restored – Debt service-to-revenue ratio reduced from 97% to below 50%.
- Stronger Reserves – External reserves rose to $42.03 billion, the highest since 2019.
- Tax Reforms – Tax-to-GDP ratio increased to 13.5%, with relief for low-income earners.
- Trade Surplus – Nigeria has enjoyed five consecutive quarters of trade surplus.
- Oil Recovery – Production rose to 1.68 million barrels per day, alongside domestic refining for the first time in four decades.
- Naira Stability – FX reforms narrowed the gap between official and parallel markets.
- Social Investment – N330 billion disbursed to eight million vulnerable households.
- Mining Revival – Coal and solid minerals sector saw strong recovery and growth.
- Infrastructure Expansion – Major rail, road, and port projects under construction.
- Global Recognition – Improved sovereign ratings and stock market boom.
- Monetary Confidence – CBN reduced interest rates after five years.
These milestones prove that our sacrifices are bearing fruit and our economy is on the path of recovery.
Security and National Unity
Our armed forces are making progress against Boko Haram, IPOB/ESN terrorism, banditry, and kidnapping. Peace has returned to many communities, and displaced citizens are returning home. We honour the sacrifices of our men and women in uniform who defend our sovereignty daily.
Investing in Youth and Innovation
To our young people, you are Nigeria’s greatest asset. We will continue to support your dreams through initiatives like NELFUND, which has disbursed N99.5 billion in student loans, and Credicorp, which provides affordable loans for housing, energy, and digital devices.
Our iDICE programme, in partnership with global development banks, will nurture innovation in digital technology and the creative economy, empowering the next generation of entrepreneurs.
A Message of Hope
Yes, these reforms have brought temporary pains. Inflation and cost of living remain concerns. But the alternative — economic collapse — was unacceptable.
The true test of success lies not just in statistics but in food security, affordable education, stable electricity, and safer communities. With improved revenue flows, state and local governments now have more resources to serve their people.
Nigeria First: A Call to Action
On this 65th anniversary, I call on all Nigerians to rise to the task of nation-building. Let us:
- Farm our land and process our produce.
- Build factories and industries.
- Patronise Made-in-Nigeria goods.
- Pay our taxes faithfully.
- Believe in the boundless potential of our country.
Together, with Almighty God on our side, the dawn of a new, prosperous, self-reliant Nigeria is here.
Happy 65th Independence Anniversary. May God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
