NATIONAL ADDRESS BY HIS EXCELLENCY, BOLA AHMED TINUBU, GCFR, PRESIDENT OF THE FEDERAL REPUBLIC OF NIGERIA ON THE OCCASION OF NIGERIA’S 65TH INDEPENDENCE ANNIVERSARY, OCTOBER 1, 2025
Fellow Nigerians,
Today, we celebrate the 65th anniversary of our beloved nation’s Independence. As we reflect on the importance of this day and the journey of our nationhood since October 1, 1960, when our founding fathers received the instruments of self-government from colonial rule, let us remember their sacrifices, their devotion, and their bold vision of a prosperous, strong, and united Nigeria that would lead Africa and shine as a beacon of hope to the world.
2. Our pioneering heroes and heroines—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 other nationalists—believed Nigeria was destined to lead the black race as the largest black nation on earth.
3. For decades, the promises of our Independence have been tested by social, economic, and political challenges—yet we endured. While not all the lofty dreams of our forbearers have been achieved, we remain on course. In 65 years, Nigeria has made remarkable strides in economic development, social unity, and infrastructure growth. Our economy has expanded significantly since 1960.
4. Though it is easy for critics to highlight what is lacking, we must also acknowledge and celebrate our progress. Today, Nigerians enjoy better education and healthcare than in 1960. At Independence, Nigeria had only 120 secondary schools with about 130,000 students. By 2024, that number grew to over 23,000 schools. Then, we had just the University of Ibadan and Yaba College of Technology as tertiary institutions. By the end of last year, we had 274 universities, 183 Polytechnics, and 236 Colleges of Education across Federal, State, and private ownership. Since Independence, growth has surged in healthcare, infrastructure, financial services, manufacturing, telecommunications, IT, aviation, and defence, among other areas.
5. In these 65 years, Nigeria has seen both triumphs and trials, as all nations do. We endured a civil war, military dictatorships, and political upheavals. Yet, through it all, we overcame with courage, determination, and resilience. Although insidious forces sometimes test the bonds that hold us together, we continue to pursue a more perfect union where every Nigerian finds belonging, purpose, and fulfilment.
6. Fellow Compatriots, this marks the third Independence Anniversary address I deliver as your President since May 29, 2023. Over the last 28 months, like our founding leaders, I have remained unwaveringly committed to the unfinished task of nation-building.
7. When we assumed office, we inherited an economy near collapse, weakened by decades of distorted fiscal policies. We faced a choice: continue on the failing path or embrace bold, fundamental reforms. We chose reforms. We chose the future over temporary comfort. Less than three years on, those difficult decisions are bearing fruit.
8. To reset Nigeria for sustainable growth, we ended the corrupt fuel subsidies and multiple exchange rates that only enriched a minority while leaving the masses behind. Our government is redirecting resources into education, healthcare, security, agriculture, infrastructure—roads, power, broadband—and social programmes to improve lives. Today, Federal, State, and Local Governments have more funds to serve Nigerians better and address long-standing development needs.
9. Fellow Nigerians, time is against us. We must build new roads, fix failing ones, expand schools, and improve hospitals for our people. We must prepare for future generations. Our industries and homes lack sufficient electricity, our roads are in decay, and our ports, railways, and airports fall short of global standards—all because of past neglect. Our government is correcting this.
10. I am glad to report that we have turned a corner. The worst is over. Yesterday’s pains are giving way to relief. I salute your patience, support, and understanding. I will continue to serve faithfully and justify the trust you have placed in me to steer Nigeria to safety.
11. Under our leadership, the economy is rebounding. Reforms are yielding results. In Q2 2025, GDP grew by 4.23%—the fastest in four years—beating IMF’s 3.4% projection. Inflation fell to 20.12% in August, the lowest in three years. Our administration is boosting food production and working towards food security.
12. Over the past two years, through sound fiscal and monetary policies, we have achieved 12 notable economic milestones:
i. Non-oil revenue hit record levels, surpassing the 2025 target by August with over N20 trillion. September alone brought N3.65 trillion, 411% higher than May 2023.
ii. Fiscal health has been restored: debt service-to-revenue fell from 97% to below 50%. “Ways and Means” advances have been reduced. The removal of fuel subsidy freed trillions for targeted investments.
iii. External reserves rose to $42.03 billion in September 2025—the highest since 2019.
iv. The tax-to-GDP ratio climbed to 13.5% from less than 10%, expected to rise further with new tax laws. These laws expand the base while protecting low-income earners.
v. Nigeria now records trade surpluses for five consecutive quarters, exporting more than it imports. In Q2 2025, trade surplus rose 44.3% to ₦7.46 trillion, the largest in three years. Non-oil exports now make up 48% of trade.
vi. Oil production rose to 1.68 million bpd from 1 million in May 2023, aided by better security and investment. For the first time in 40 years, PMS was refined locally. Nigeria also became Africa’s top exporter of aviation fuel.
vii. The Naira has stabilised, with the gap between official and parallel markets closing. Multiple exchange rates are now history.
viii. Under social investment, N330 billion has been given to 8 million households, many receiving tranches of N25,000.
ix. Coal mining grew 57.5% in Q2 after a 22% decline in Q1, making solid minerals key to economic growth.
x. Infrastructure expansion is underway nationwide. Rail and water transport grew by 40% and 27% respectively. Major projects—Kano-Maradi, Kaduna-Kano, Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway, and Sokoto-Badagry Highway—are progressing. $3 billion was approved for the Eastern Rail Project.
xi. Global rating agencies have upgraded Nigeria’s outlook. The stock market surged from 55,000 points in May 2023 to 142,000 by September 26, 2025.
xii. For the first time in five years, the CBN cut interest rates, showing confidence in macroeconomic stability.
SECURITY:
13. We are working tirelessly to strengthen national security. Our armed forces and security agencies are sacrificing daily to keep Nigeria safe. They are defeating terrorism, banditry, and violent crimes. Their sacrifices have restored peace to hundreds of communities in the North-East and North-West, allowing thousands of displaced citizens to return home.
YOUTH:
14. To our young people: you are Nigeria’s future and greatest assets. Dream big, innovate, excel in science, technology, sports, arts, and creativity. Our administration will continue to support you. Through NELFUND, 510,000 students from 228 institutions have received loans, with N99.5 billion disbursed and N44.7 billion for upkeep.
15. Credicorp has provided N30 billion in affordable loans to 153,000 Nigerians for vehicles, solar power, housing, and digital tools.
16. YouthCred, promised in June, is now reality, with thousands of NYSC members benefiting.
17. Through our Renewed Hope Agenda, we are building a Nigeria where every youth has equal access to opportunity. The iDICE programme, backed by the Bank of Industry and international partners, is empowering young talents in tech and the creative industries.
A MESSAGE OF HOPE
18. Fellow Nigerians, I have openly acknowledged the temporary pains of reforms. Inflation and high living costs remain pressing challenges. But the alternative—economic collapse—was unacceptable. Our progress proves the sacrifices are not in vain. Together, we are building a strong, lasting foundation.
19. True success will be seen not just in statistics but in food security, better education, electricity, and safety in our communities. Be assured that resources and stability will be channelled into these areas. State governments and local councils are already driving more development.
20. On this 65th Independence Anniversary, my message is of hope and a call to action. The federal government will continue fixing the economy’s foundations. But we must all contribute through productivity, innovation, and enterprise. Let us support “Made-in-Nigeria,” farm our lands, and pay our taxes. Nigeria first.
21. Together, let us believe again in our great nation’s limitless potential.
22. With Almighty God on our side, the dawn of a new, prosperous, and self-reliant Nigeria is here.
23. Happy 65th Independence Anniversary. May God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria. Amen.
Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR
President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria
Presidential Villa, Abuja.
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