President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to rebuilding Nigeria’s economy and national unity, describing the country’s 65th Independence Anniversary as a moment of hope, reflection, and renewed action.

 

In a national address titled “Message of Hope”, Tinubu acknowledged the economic difficulties Nigerians are currently facing, especially the impact of inflation and rising cost of living, but insisted that the reforms being undertaken are necessary to avert economic collapse.

 

“These reforms have come with some temporary pains. The biting effects of inflation and the rising cost of living remain a significant concern to our government,” Tinubu said. “However, the alternative of allowing our country to descend into economic chaos or bankruptcy was not an option.”

 

The President emphasized that the country’s macroeconomic progress shows that sacrifices made by Nigerians have not been in vain. He likened the nation’s recovery path to laying a foundation “cast in concrete, not on quicksand.”

 

Tinubu called on Nigerians to measure national success not only through economic statistics, but also in the practical improvements in everyday life, including food availability, education, electricity, and security.

 

“Let me assure you of our administration’s determination to ensure that the resources we have saved and the stability we have built are channelled into these critical areas,” he said.

 

As part of a call to national productivity, Tinubu urged citizens and sub-national governments to contribute actively to the country’s development by prioritizing production over consumption, investing in local agriculture, and patronising Made-in-Nigeria products.

 

“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,” he said, adding a call for citizens to pay their taxes.

 

Highlighting improvements in public service, he praised the Ministry of Interior for speeding up passport processing, citing it as a model of efficiency to be replicated across sectors.

 

Tinubu also noted that state-level governance and local government autonomy are beginning to yield visible development, signaling progress in decentralization efforts.

 

The President concluded his address with an optimistic message grounded in faith and collective resolve.

 

“Let all hands be on deck. Let us believe, once more, in the boundless potential of our great nation. With Almighty God on our side, I can assure you that the dawn of a new, prosperous, self-reliant Nigeria is here.”

 

President Tinubu’s message comes as the country continues to navigate complex economic and social challenges, with his administration betting on structural reforms and citizen participation to usher in a new era of growth and stability.