President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has assured Nigerians that the nation has “turned the corner” towards economic recovery and long-term prosperity, declaring that the most difficult period is now behind them.
Delivering his Independence Day broadcast on Wednesday to mark Nigeria’s 65th anniversary, the president expressed optimism about the country’s future.
“I am pleased to report that we have finally turned the corner. The worst is over. Yesterday’s pains are giving way to relief,” Tinubu said.
He praised Nigerians for their patience and resilience in the face of hardship, promising to remain steadfast in his commitment to national progress.
“I salute your endurance, support, and understanding. I will continue to work for you and justify the confidence you reposed in me to steer the ship of our nation to a safe harbour,” he declared.
Reflecting on the state of the economy when he assumed office, Tinubu acknowledged that his administration inherited deep structural problems.
“Upon assuming office, our administration inherited a near-collapsed economy caused by decades of fiscal policy distortions and misalignment that had impaired real growth,” he noted.
The president explained that his government had faced a difficult choice: continue with policies that entrenched decline or implement sweeping reforms to secure the country’s future.
He maintained that decisive action was necessary to prevent further collapse, pointing to the removal of the fuel subsidy and the unification of the foreign exchange system as critical turning points.
According to Tinubu, these reforms dismantled entrenched interests that thrived on a rent-seeking economy, while freeing up funds for essential sectors such as education, healthcare, agriculture, security, and infrastructure, including roads, power, broadband, and social investment programmes.
He emphasised that these efforts were already producing results and setting Nigeria on a more inclusive growth trajectory.
Looking ahead, Tinubu urged citizens to unite in driving rapid development, warning that the country must act swiftly to address infrastructure deficits.
“We are racing against time. All hands must be on deck to fast track development and deliver the promise of a greater Nigeria,” he said.
