Reloaded News Desk
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has declared that Nigeria is moving from an era of economic reforms into what he described as an “age of prosperity,” as the country marks its 66th Independence Anniversary.
Tinubu made the declaration in his Independence Day address to Nigerians on Thursday, October 1, 2026, in which he defended the economic reforms introduced by his administration since assuming office in May 2023.
The President said the reforms, including the removal of the petrol subsidy, were necessary to reposition the economy and create conditions for sustainable growth.
According to Tinubu, Nigeria’s economy has continued to expand, with growth exceeding four per cent in 2026. He also pointed to developments in foreign reserves, non-oil exports and efforts to tackle crude oil theft as indicators of improving economic conditions.
“We cannot erase in four years what accumulated over generations. But we can change its course,” the President said.
Tinubu acknowledged that Nigerians were still facing pressure from the cost of living, saying his administration was focused on reducing the burden through increased agricultural production, improved infrastructure, investment in electricity and transportation, and measures designed to expand economic opportunities.
He said the government was also expanding access to education and finance through initiatives including the Nigerian Education Loan Fund and the Nigerian Consumer Credit Corporation.
On employment, the President said his administration was prioritising job creation, industrialisation and opportunities for young Nigerians, while encouraging greater private-sector participation in the economy.
Tinubu also highlighted social protection programmes and efforts to strengthen primary healthcare, saying the government was working to ensure that the benefits of economic growth reach more Nigerians.
The President maintained that the reforms would take time to fully translate into improved living conditions, but insisted that the direction of the economy had changed.
He called on Nigerians to remain hopeful and united as the country enters another year of independence.
“Now is the time to move forward with faith. No looking back,” Tinubu said.
