Presidential Villa, Abuja, October 1, 2025
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s 65th Independence Day speech struck a tone of cautious optimism, blending reflections on Nigeria’s journey since 1960 with bold claims of economic progress under his administration. Speaking to Nigerians on October 1, 2025, the President highlighted milestones in education, infrastructure, fiscal reforms, and security, while acknowledging the temporary pains of subsidy removal and inflation. Tinubu assured citizens that the “worst is over” as key indicators such as GDP growth, inflation, oil production, and foreign reserves showed signs of recovery.
Framing his address around renewed hope and collective responsibility, the President urged Nigerians to embrace productivity, innovation, and patriotism, stressing that the sacrifices of today will yield a more prosperous and self-reliant nation. His remarks positioned the federal government’s reform agenda as both inevitable and transformative, with an emphasis on youth empowerment, national security, and economic diversification.
What the President Said:
Reflections on Independence and Nationhood
Fellow Nigerians,
Today marks the 65th anniversary of our great nation’s Independence. As we reflect on the significance of this day and our journey of nationhood since October 1, 1960, when our founding fathers accepted the instruments of self-government from colonial rule, let us remember their sacrifice, devotion, and grand dream of a strong, prosperous, and united Nigeria that will lead Africa and be the beacon of light to the rest of the world.
Our founding 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 other nationalists—believed it was Nigeria’s manifest destiny to lead the entire black race as the largest black nation on earth.
Progress and Challenges Since 1960
For decades, the promise of our Independence has been tested by profound social, economic, and political challenges, and we have survived. While we may not have achieved all the lofty dreams of our forebearers, we have not strayed too far from them. In 65 years since our Independence, we have made tremendous progress in economic growth, social cohesion, and physical development.
Although it is much easier for those whose vocation is to focus solely on what ought to be, we must recognise and celebrate our significant progress. Nigerians today have access to better education and healthcare than in 1960. At Independence, Nigeria had 120 secondary schools with about 130,000 students; today, there are more than 23,000 secondary schools and 274 universities nationwide.
Our country has experienced both the good and the bad times – civil war, military dictatorships, and political crises. In all these, we weathered every storm and overcame every challenge with courage and determination.
Economic Reforms and Recovery
Upon assuming office, our administration inherited a near-collapsed economy caused by decades of fiscal mismanagement. We chose reforms over complacency: ending corrupt fuel subsidies, unifying multiple exchange rates, and redirecting resources to fund education, healthcare, infrastructure, and social investment.
The results are showing. Nigeria’s GDP grew by 4.23% in Q2 2025, inflation declined to 20.12% in August 2025, and oil production rebounded to 1.68 million barrels per day. Our foreign reserves rose to $42.03 billion, and non-oil exports now account for nearly half of total exports.
Security Gains
We are working diligently to enhance national security. Our armed forces and security agencies are recording significant victories against terrorism, banditry, and violent crimes. Peace has returned to many communities in the North-East and North-West, with thousands of displaced persons returning home.
Youth Empowerment
I have a message for our young people: you are the future and the greatest assets of this country. Through initiatives like NELFUND, more than 510,000 students have accessed education loans worth nearly ₦100 billion. Programmes like Credicorp, YouthCred, and the iDICE initiative are expanding access to loans, skills, and opportunities in technology and the creative sector.
A Message of Hope
Fellow Nigerians, I have always candidly acknowledged that reforms come with temporary pains. Inflation and rising costs remain a concern, but the alternative of economic collapse was unacceptable. Together, we are laying a new foundation for a prosperous, self-reliant Nigeria.
Therefore, on this 65th Anniversary of our Independence, my message is one of hope and a call to action. Let us build a nation of producers, not just consumers. Let us patronise Made-in-Nigeria goods, pay our taxes, and work together for the greater good.
With Almighty God on our side, the dawn of a new, prosperous Nigeria is here.
Happy 65th Independence Anniversary, and may God continue to bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR
President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces
Presidential Villa, Abuja
