Tinubu Says Nigeria Has Entered “Age of Prosperity” as Nation Marks 66th Independence

ABUJA — October 1, 2026

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has delivered his Independence Day address to Nigerians as the country marks its 66th year of independence, saying Nigeria has moved beyond the difficult phase of economic reforms and is now entering what he called an “age of prosperity.”

In the nationwide broadcast, Tinubu defended the economic reforms introduced since he assumed office in 2023, saying the measures were necessary to correct long-standing weaknesses in the economy.

The President said Nigeria’s economy has grown by more than 4% in 2026, while inflation has fallen from its peak, foreign reserves have increased and the foreign-exchange market has stabilised. He also said non-oil export revenue exceeded $6 billion in 2025.

Focus shifts to cost of living

Tinubu said the government’s next priority is to make economic growth more visible in the daily lives of Nigerians.

He listed lower food and transportation costs, job creation, reliable electricity, access to credit and improved infrastructure among the areas that will receive greater attention.

The President said the government would increase investment in mechanised farming, irrigation, storage, roads, railways and ports to reduce the cost of producing and moving goods.

He also highlighted programmes including the Nigerian Education Loan Fund, CREDICORP and social support programmes as part of efforts to assist Nigerians while the economy expands.

“No looking back”

Tinubu urged Nigerians to continue supporting the country’s economic direction, saying the nation has “corrected its course.”

He acknowledged that millions of Nigerians are still struggling with food, school fees, medical bills and transportation costs, but said the government intends to change the direction of the economy.

“Now begins the age of prosperity.”

The President ended his address by calling for national unity and a forward-looking approach as Nigeria begins another year of independence.

MONAFRIKA FOCUS

Tinubu’s Independence Day message places cost of living, jobs, production and poverty reduction at the centre of the next phase of his administration.

The key issue for Nigerians will be whether the economic improvements cited by the government translate into lower prices, stronger household incomes and better opportunities in everyday life.