Tinubu Tells Nigerians: Nigeria Has Moved From Reform to Prosperity

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has assured Nigerians that the country is entering a new phase of economic development, declaring that Nigeria has moved beyond the difficult period of reforms and is now focused on achieving broader prosperity. Tinubu made the declaration on Thursday, October 1, 2026, during his nationwide Independence Day address to mark Nigeria’s 66th anniversary. The President delivered the address under the theme “From Reform to Prosperity,” reflecting his administration’s position that the economic reforms introduced over the past three years have laid the foundation for stronger growth. Tinubu acknowledged that many Nigerians are still experiencing serious economic difficulties, including challenges with food, school fees, medical expenses and transportation. He, however, argued that the hardship predates his administration and is the result of problems that accumulated over several decades, including low productivity, inadequate infrastructure and limited economic opportunities. According to the President, the government’s immediate priority is to reduce the cost of living by lowering the cost of producing and transporting goods. He also outlined plans to expand agricultural production, improve access to seeds and fertilisers, increase mechanisation, strengthen storage facilities and improve transportation. Tinubu said the government would also place greater emphasis on job creation, industrial development, digital connectivity and support for Nigerian businesses. He said Nigeria’s gas resources would be used to support industries while government policies would encourage factories to return to production. The President also promised stronger support for vulnerable Nigerians through improvements to the National Social Register and direct assistance to poorer households. Tinubu said the country could not reverse decades of accumulated economic challenges within four years but could change the direction of the economy. He urged Nigerians to remain hopeful and work together towards building an economy where prosperity is more widely shared. The President also highlighted what his administration described as progress in areas including economic growth, inflation, foreign reserves and the reduction of oil theft. As Nigeria celebrates 66 years of independence, the President’s message was centred on the expectation that the difficult period of economic adjustment would give way to improved living standards and greater economic opportunities.