President Bola Tinubu on Tuesday addressed the nation in commemoration of Nigeria’s 64th Independence Anniversary. Here are 10 key points from the President’s speech
Acknowledgement of Challenges:
President Tinubu recognized the struggles many Nigerians face, particularly with rising living costs and unemployment, and assured citizens that their voices are being heard.
He said: “Fellow Nigerians, as I address you today, I am deeply aware of the struggles many of you face in these challenging times. Our administration knows that many of you struggle with rising living costs and the search for meaningful employment. I want to assure you that your voices are heard.”
Commitment to Reforms:
The President assured that his administration is committed to finding sustainable solutions to alleviate citizens’ suffering, urging patience as reforms begin to show positive signs.
His words: “Once again, I plead for your patience as the reforms we are implementing show positive signs, and we are beginning to see light at the end of the tunnel.”
Historical Reflection:
The president reflected on Nigeria’s journey since independence, highlighting the nation’s resilience and progress in fulfilling the dreams of its founding fathers.
“Over six decades later, we can look back, and Nigerians worldwide can see how well we have succeeded in realising the lofty dreams of our founding fathers.” he said
Security Improvements:
According to President Tinubu, the government has made significant progress in combating terrorism and banditry, with over 300 Boko Haram and bandit commanders eliminated, leading to the restoration of peace in many communities.
“On the security front, I am happy to announce to you, my compatriots, that our administration is winning the war on terror and banditry. Our target is to eliminate all the threats of Boko Haram, banditry, kidnapping for ransom, and the scourge of all forms of violent extremism.”
Economic Reforms:
Tinubu also assured that his administration is focused on correcting fiscal misalignments, attracting foreign investments, and promoting free enterprise to stimulate economic growth and job creation.
He said: “The economy is undergoing the necessary reforms and retooling to serve us better and more sustainably. If we do not correct the fiscal misalignments that led to the current economic downturn, our country will face an uncertain future and the peril of unimaginable consequences.
Thanks to the reforms, our country attracted foreign direct investments worth more than $30 billion in the last year.”
Flood Response and Infrastructure:
Tinubu declared that a Disaster Relief Fund has been approved to respond to natural disasters, and integrity tests are being conducted on dams to prevent future calamities.
Agricultural Development:
Mr President mentioned efforts to boost agricultural production include providing tractors and establishing a local assembly plant for farm equipment, aiming to reduce food costs.
Hear him: “We are playing our part by supplying fertilizer and making tractors and other farm equipment available. Last week, the Federal Executive Council approved establishing a local assembly plant for 2000 John Deere tractors, combine harvesters, disc riders, bottom ploughs and other farm equipment. The plant has a completion time of six months.”
Youth Empowerment:
In the broadcast, Tinubu also announced that the government is organizing a National Youth Conference to empower young people and ensure their participation in nation-building, alongside other youth-centric programs.
Energy Transition and Transportation:
He said his administration is expanding the use of Compressed Natural Gas for mass transit and supporting states in acquiring CNG buses for more affordable public transportation.
He gave assurances that “The Federal Government is ready to assist the thirty-six States and FCT in acquiring CNG buses for cheaper public transportation.”
Call for Unity and Optimism:
President Tinubu called on Nigerians to believe in the nation’s promise, emphasizing resilience and the potential for a brighter future through collective effort and unity.
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