Tinubu Addresses Nigeria's Economic Struggles on Independence Day

In his Independence Day address, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu asserted that the economic challenges confronting millions of Nigerian families predate his administration. He emphasized that these difficulties stem from decades of low productivity, inadequate infrastructure, limited opportunities, and institutional weaknesses.

Tinubu acknowledged the ongoing struggles of citizens to afford basic necessities such as food, education, and healthcare. He argued that while his administration cannot resolve generational problems in four years, it is committed to changing the economic direction and creating conditions to lift more Nigerians out of poverty.

Tinubu highlighted initiatives such as the Nigerian Education Loan Fund and the Credit Corporation (CREDICORP) consumer credit scheme to support vulnerable citizens. He reported measurable improvements since implementing economic reforms, including over four percent economic growth in 2026 and significant non-oil export revenue in 2025.

The president identified lowering the cost of living and enhancing infrastructure as key priorities moving forward.