President Bola Tinubu has expressed confidence in his administration’s performance as he marked the second anniversary of his presidency, describing the progress made so far as a testament to the success of his policies and reforms.
In an address to the nation on Thursday, Tinubu acknowledged the challenges he inherited upon assuming office but credited his government with stabilising the economy, fostering growth and laying the foundation for a brighter future.
“The economic and general situation of the country I inherited required that we redirect the country’s affairs with a bold and new vision. Today, I proudly affirm that our economic reforms are working,” the president declared.
Tinubu highlighted the removal of fuel subsidies and the unification of foreign exchange windows as critical early decisions to stabilise the nation’s economy. He emphasised that these reforms were necessary to prevent fiscal collapse and pave the way for long-term prosperity.
“Our economic reforms are working. We have stabilised our economy and are better positioned for growth and resilience against global shocks,” Tinubu stated, citing a reduction in inflation and significant investments in the oil and gas sector.
Tinubu reported a narrowing fiscal deficit, improved debt servicing, and a surge in revenue generation, including a rise in the tax-to-GDP ratio from 10% to over 13.5% by the end of 2024. These achievements, he said, are the result of transparent policies and tax reforms aimed at fostering inclusive economic growth.
The president also highlighted efforts to alleviate the cost of living, including the introduction of VAT exemptions for essential goods and services such as food, healthcare and education.
Tinubu detailed investments in road infrastructure, mechanised agriculture and renewable energy, alongside initiatives to expand access to education and healthcare. He noted the revitalisation of over 1,000 primary health centres and the establishment of six cancer treatment centres as part of his Renewed Hope Health Agenda.
In education, he said his administration has expanded infrastructure and introduced a student loan scheme to support indigent students. Youth empowerment programmes, including digital job facilitation and export incentives, also feature prominently in the government’s agenda.
The president praised the armed forces and security agencies for their efforts to restore peace in previously volatile areas, ensuring safer highways and enabling farmers to return to their lands.
“Our administration is committed to the security and safety of our people,” Tinubu said, noting improved collaboration among security agencies and the welfare of personnel as key to maintaining peace.
Tinubu announced plans for the Motherland Festival, a global event aimed at showcasing Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage and vibrant creative industries. He also acknowledged the vital contributions of the Nigerian diaspora to national development, citing new policies to facilitate their engagement and investment.
As his administration enters its third year, Tinubu expressed optimism about Nigeria’s trajectory, emphasising that the groundwork for a stronger and more inclusive nation has been laid.
As his administration enters its third year, Tinubu expressed optimism about Nigeria’s trajectory, asserting that his Renewed Hope Agenda is yielding results.
” The real impact of our governance objectives is beginning to take hold. The future is bright, and together, we will build a stronger, more inclusive Nigeria that we can all be proud of,” he concluded.
