President Tinubu’s Independence Anniversary Broadcast – Nigeria at 65

National Broadcast by His Excellency Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, on the 65th Independence Anniversary, October 1, 2025.

Fellow Nigerians,

Today, our beloved nation celebrates 65 years of independence. This historic milestone reminds us of October 1, 1960, when our founding fathers embraced the instruments of self-government and freed Nigeria from colonial dominance. Their vision, sacrifice, and devotion laid the foundation for a strong, united, and prosperous Nigeria destined to lead Africa and stand as a shining light to the world.

Remembering the Pioneers of Nigeria’s Independence

Our great nationalists—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, Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti, and many others—firmly believed Nigeria was destined to lead the black race as the largest black nation on earth.

Nigeria’s Journey of 65 Years

Although the promise of independence has been tested by decades of economic, political, and social challenges, our resilience has prevailed. We may not have fully realized the lofty dreams of our forebears, but remarkable progress has been achieved. In the last six decades, Nigeria has experienced visible improvements in infrastructure, education, healthcare, economic growth, and social development.

In 1960, Nigeria had only 120 secondary schools with a population of 130,000 students. By 2024, this had risen to more than 23,000 secondary schools. At independence, there were just two tertiary institutions—the University of Ibadan and Yaba College of Technology. Today, Nigeria boasts 274 universities, 183 polytechnics, and 236 colleges of education, comprising federal, state, and private institutions.

Resilience Through Trials

As a nation, we have lived through civil war, political instability, and military rule. Despite these turbulent experiences, Nigerians have continually displayed courage, determination, and unity. Even when forces attempt to weaken our values and divide us, our national spirit continues to strive for a more perfect union.

Tinubu’s Reflections as President

This is the third independence anniversary address since my assumption of office on May 29, 2023. In these 28 months, I have committed myself to the unfinished task of nation-building, continuing the legacy of leaders before me.

When I took office, Nigeria faced a near-collapsed economy after years of mismanagement. My administration had to choose between maintaining the status quo or embarking on bold reforms. We chose the path of reform—prioritizing tomorrow’s prosperity over today’s comfort.

Reforms and Progress

We removed the exploitative fuel subsidy and unified multiple exchange rates that encouraged corruption. These decisions redirected national resources to vital sectors such as education, healthcare, infrastructure, agriculture, broadband, and social investment programmes.

As a result, federal, state, and local governments now have more resources to address development needs. Though painful at first, the reforms are yielding results. For example, in Q2 2025, Nigeria’s GDP grew by 4.23%, surpassing IMF projections of 3.4%. Inflation also fell to 20.12% in August 2025, the lowest in three years.

Key Economic Achievements

In just two years, our administration has achieved notable milestones, including:

• A record-breaking rise in non-oil revenue, exceeding ₦20 trillion by August 2025.
• Debt service-to-revenue ratio reduced below 50%.
• External reserves rose to $42.03 billion—the highest since 2019.
• Tax-to-GDP ratio improved to 13.5%, with further increases expected in 2026.
• Nigeria recorded five consecutive quarters of trade surplus, with exports growing by 173%.
• Oil production rose to 1.68 million barrels per day, alongside domestic refining breakthroughs.
• The Naira stabilized, ending multiple exchange rates and curbing arbitrage.
• Over ₦330 billion disbursed to 8 million households under social investment programmes.
• Coal mining and solid mineral sectors witnessed major recovery.
• Transport infrastructure expanded nationwide with rail, seaport, and highway projects.
• Improved sovereign credit ratings and a booming stock market.
• The Central Bank cut interest rates for the first time in five years.

National Security

Our armed forces and security agencies continue to sacrifice for the nation, combating terrorism, banditry, and violent crimes. Their courage has brought peace to previously terrorized communities in the North-East and North-West, enabling thousands of displaced persons to return home.

Empowering the Youth

Nigerian youths remain our most valuable asset. My administration has invested in policies and programmes to empower them, including:

• NELFUND: Student loans disbursed to over 510,000 students across 36 states.
• Credicorp: Affordable loans worth ₦30 billion to 153,000 Nigerians for housing, solar energy, and digital devices.
• YouthCred: Credit access for NYSC members.
• iDICE Programme: Investments in digital and creative enterprises supported by international partners.

A Message of Hope

I acknowledge the temporary pains Nigerians are experiencing due to reforms, such as inflation and high living costs. However, the sacrifices are laying a solid foundation for long-term prosperity. The true measure of our progress will not only be economic growth but also food security, affordable education, reliable electricity, and safe communities.

On this 65th independence anniversary, my message is clear: hope and renewed commitment. Let us be a nation of producers, not consumers. Let us farm our land, build industries, and prioritize Made-in-Nigeria goods.

With Almighty God guiding us, I am confident that a new dawn of prosperity and self-reliance awaits our nation.

Happy Independence Anniversary, Nigeria.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR
Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria
Presidential Villa, Abuja.