Fellow Nigerians,
Today, we mark 65 years since our dear nation broke free from colonial rule. On October 1, 1960, our founding fathers took that bold step toward self-determination, driven by sacrifice and an unshakable dream of a prosperous, united Nigeria that would lead Africa and inspire the world.
We remember icons like Nnamdi Azikiwe, Obafemi Awolowo, Ahmadu Bello, Tafawa Balewa, Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti, Margaret Ekpo, Aminu Kano, Anthony Enahoro and many others, who gave their all so Nigeria could stand tall as the largest black nation on earth. Their vision still guides us.
Over the past six decades, we’ve faced ups and downs—civil war, military rule, political crises—but Nigeria has always survived. We have made strides in education, health, infrastructure, and the economy. From just two tertiary institutions in 1960, we now boast hundreds of universities, polytechnics and colleges. We have grown in technology, telecoms, aviation, finance and industry. Yes, we have stumbled, but we have also risen stronger each time.
This is the third Independence Day I address you as President. When I took office in 2023, I met a broken economy. We had two choices: continue on a failing path or make bold reforms. We chose reform. We scrapped corrupt fuel subsidies and unified our exchange rates, so our commonwealth could serve all Nigerians, not just a privileged few. Today, those painful decisions are starting to pay off.
I know times have been tough. Inflation and high costs of living have tested your patience. But I can tell you confidently—the worst is over. Our GDP is growing faster than predicted, inflation is falling, and Nigeria is recording trade surpluses. More funds are flowing to states and local governments, roads and rail projects are advancing, and domestic fuel refining has restarted after four decades.
Our armed forces are pushing back terrorists, bandits and criminals, restoring peace to communities in the North-East and North-West. I salute their sacrifice and courage on behalf of a grateful nation.
To our youth, I say this: you are Nigeria’s greatest asset. From NELFUND student loans to YouthCred for NYSC members, to the iDICE programme for tech and creatives, we are investing in your future. Dream big, innovate, and take your place in the world. This country belongs to you.
Fellow compatriots, this journey is not just about numbers and policies. True progress will be measured in food on our tables, jobs for our young people, steady light in our homes, safe streets, and quality healthcare for our families. That is the Nigeria we are building.
On this 65th anniversary, I call on all of us—government, businesses, communities and individuals—to put Nigeria first. Let’s farm our land, build our industries, and patronise made-in-Nigeria goods. Let us be producers, not just consumers. With God on our side, I believe a new dawn is here—a Nigeria that is prosperous, self-reliant, and respected across the world.
Happy 65th Independence Anniversary, and may God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
— Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR
President, Federal Republic of Nigeria
