Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has declared that his country has overcome its most severe economic and political challenges, stating “the worst is over” during his address marking Nigeria’s 65th Independence Day in Abuja on October 1, 2025.
Delivering a national broadcast, Tinubu reflected on the sacrifices of Nigeria’s founding leaders and outlined his administration’s reforms, which he credited with rescuing the nation from near-collapse.
Since taking office in May 2023, Tinubu has implemented bold reforms, including the removal of fuel subsidies and the devaluation of the naira. While these measures initially triggered widespread protests due to rising living costs, the president argued that they have stabilized the economy in the long run.
“Our administration inherited a near-collapsed economy caused by decades of fiscal distortions and misalignment,” Tinubu said. “We chose reforms over business as usual, and today we can report progress. The worst is over.”
According to Tinubu, the Nigerian economy expanded by 4.23% in the second quarter of 2025, while inflation dropped to 20.12% in August, the lowest rate in three years. He highlighted improved oil production, record non-oil revenues, and a trade surplus as evidence that Nigeria is diversifying beyond crude exports.
Nigeria gained independence from Britain on October 1, 1960, after decades of colonial exploitation and resistance movements. Since then, the country has endured military dictatorships, political upheaval, and a devastating civil war before transitioning back to democracy in 1999.
Tinubu acknowledged that the dreams of Nigeria’s founding leaders remain only partially fulfilled. “Our independence has been tested by crises and hardship. Yet, we have not strayed too far from their vision,” he noted.
In addition to domestic reforms, Tinubu’s government has sought to strengthen Nigeria’s global standing. Earlier in 2025, Nigeria became a BRICS partner state, a move officials believe will boost trade and foreign investment.
The president pledged to remain committed to “the unfinished nation-building business” and to ensure long-term stability for Africa’s most populous country.
Tinubu’s message of optimism comes as millions of Nigerians continue to face high living costs and unemployment. While critics argue that hardship remains widespread, the government insists that the reforms are beginning to yield results and will secure a more sustainable future for the country.