Nigeria’s worst days are over as reforms begin to deliver results – Tinubu

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Wednesday declared that Nigeria has “turned the corner” economically and politically, assuring citizens that the country’s “worst days are over.”

Delivering his 65th Independence Day broadcast, Tinubu stated that his administration’s tough reforms, implemented since May 2023, are beginning to yield tangible results, despite the initial hardships faced by citizens.

“Yesterday’s pains are giving way to relief. The worst is over, I say,” Tinubu stated.

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“I salute your endurance, support, and understanding. I will continue to work for you and justify the confidence you reposed in me.”

The President defended his decision to remove fuel subsidies and unify foreign exchange rates, describing them as “difficult but necessary steps” to end decades of corruption and inefficiency.

“In resetting our country for sustainable growth, we ended the corrupt fuel subsidies and multiple foreign exchange rates that created massive incentives for a rentier economy, benefiting only a tiny minority,” he said.

According to Tinubu, these reforms have freed up funds for investment in infrastructure, education, healthcare, security, and agriculture.

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The President also assured citizens that Nigeria’s armed forces are winning the war against terrorism, banditry, and separatist violence.

“We see their victories in their blood and sweat to stamp out Boko Haram terror in the North-East, IPOB/ESN terror in the South-East, and banditry and kidnapping across the country,” Tinubu said, noting that many displaced persons had returned to their communities.

He called for national unity, describing Nigeria’s 65th anniversary as “a moment for reflection on the sacrifices of our founding fathers and the resilience of our people.”

Tinubu calls for Patience and Productivity

Acknowledging ongoing hardship, Tinubu urged Nigerians to remain patient.

“I have always candidly acknowledged that these reforms have come with temporary pains. The biting effects of inflation and the rising cost of living remain a significant concern. However, the alternative of allowing our country to descend into economic chaos or bankruptcy was not an option.”

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He closed his speech with a call for productivity and patriotism: “Let us be a nation of producers, not just consumers. Let us patronise ‘Made-in-Nigeria’ goods. Let all hands be on deck. With Almighty God on our side, I can assure you that the dawn of a new, prosperous, self-reliant Nigeria is here.”