10 Major Highlights From Tinubu’s Independence Day Address

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Thursday addressed Nigerians in a nationwide broadcast to mark the country’s 66th Independence Day.

During the address, the President spoke extensively on the economy, security, cost of living, youth empowerment and the controversial removal of the petrol subsidy.

Here are 10 major highlights from Tinubu’s address:

Tinubu said the initial phase of his administration’s economic reforms has been completed, with the necessary foundations now laid. He said the government is moving into a new phase focused on delivering shared and widespread prosperity for Nigerians.

The President said Nigeria’s economy grew by more than four per cent this year, supported by both the oil and non-oil sectors. He also noted that foreign reserves have been rebuilt, inflation has declined from its peak and the foreign exchange market has become more stable.

He added that non-oil export earnings reached a record high of more than $6 billion in 2025.

Tinubu identified reducing the cost of living as a major priority of his administration.

He said the government is working to reduce production and transportation costs through expanded mechanised irrigation, dry-season farming, better access to agricultural inputs and investments in roads, railways, ports and electricity infrastructure.

4. Youths and Nigeria’s Growing Population

The President said Nigeria’s young population must be turned into an engine of economic production.

According to him, the administration is placing jobs, entrepreneurship and industrial growth at the centre of its policies, with attention to gas-powered industries, the revival of factories, digital connectivity and skills development.

5. Social Support for Vulnerable Nigerians

Tinubu said the government is updating the National Social Register to improve the delivery of direct assistance to the poorest and most vulnerable Nigerians.

He also assured that the government would continue to prioritise the timely payment of salaries and pensions.

The President highlighted the role of the Credit Corporation (CREDICORP) in expanding access to consumer credit for working Nigerians.

He said the initiative is allowing people to acquire assets such as vehicles, solar systems and digital devices without having to save for years before making such purchases.

Tinubu also highlighted the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND), saying the initiative is helping children from low-income families gain access to higher education without being held back by financial difficulties.

8. Security and Protection of National Resources

The President listed the reduction in oil theft as one of the administration’s major achievements in the security sector.

He also commended the Armed Forces and other security agencies for their efforts in maintaining peace and protecting the country’s resources.

Tinubu again defended the decision to remove the petrol subsidy and introduce other structural economic reforms.

He compared the country’s previous economic approach to using “morphine” to mask serious underlying problems instead of addressing their root causes.

The President urged Nigerians to remain disciplined and focused on the future, arguing that the sacrifices made during the reform period have laid the foundation for a stronger and more resilient economy.

He called on citizens to remain united as the country moves into what he described as a new phase focused on prosperity.

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