Dear Compatriots,
On this momentous occasion of Nigeria’s 63rd anniversary of independence, I am honoured to address you as both the President of our great nation and as a fellow Nigerian.
A Tribute to Our Founding Fathers and Mothers
Let us take a moment to commend our founding fathers and mothers, whose activism, dedication, and leadership birthed the belief in Nigeria as a sovereign and independent nation. Without their tireless efforts, there would be no modern Nigeria.
Our Shared Rights and Destiny
As Nigerians, let us affirm that we are all endowed with sacred rights and individual gifts bestowed on us by God. We are equal in greatness and no one is greater or lesser than the other. The triumphs and challenges we have experienced as a nation shall define us. No external force shall deter us from claiming our rightful place and fulfilling our destiny. Nigeria belongs to each and every one of us; let us love and cherish it as our own.
The Strength in Our Diversity
Nigeria’s remarkable formation and essential character lie in our diverse blend of ethnic groups, religions, traditions, and cultures. While intangible, our bonds are strong and universal. We are united by a shared thirst for peace, progress, prosperity, harmony, tolerance, and justice.
A Nation That Stands Strong
Despite the skeptics who doubted the viability of an independent Nigeria, our nation stands tall and resolute. We have proven them wrong by democratically electing a consecutive civilian government for the seventh time, showcasing our commitment to democracy and the rule of law.
The Promises of Good Governance
During my inauguration, I made important promises about how I would govern our great nation. I vowed to reshape and modernize our economy and to ensure the security and prosperity of our people.
The Necessity of Bold Reforms
I have not taken lightly the hardships that the people of Nigeria have faced. As we embark on bold reforms, I want to emphasize that these struggles are necessary for our journey towards a better future. We must endure temporary hardships so that we can create a Nigeria where prosperity and the nation’s resources are fairly shared among all its citizens.
The Path to Relief and Progress
To ease the burden on our families and households, my administration is implementing several public sector reforms to stabilize the economy, fight inflation, encourage production, ensure security, and support the poor and vulnerable.
Prioritizing the People
Based on discussions with labor, business, and other stakeholders, we are introducing a provisional wage increment to enhance the federal minimum wage without causing undue inflation. Additionally, we have set up an Infrastructure Support Fund for states to invest in critical areas, providing relief packages against rising food and commodity prices.
Revolutionizing Public Transportation
Lowering transport costs and making the economy more robust are key priorities. To achieve this, we are deploying cheaper and safer Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) buses across the nation. These buses will operate at a fraction of the current fuel prices, positively impacting transport fares. We are also fast-tracking the procurement process for new CNG conversion kits and establishing training facilities and workshops for transport operators and entrepreneurs.
Reforming Financial Institutions
A thorough housecleaning of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) is underway to address past lapses and prevent future occurrences. We have constituted new leadership for the CBN, and a special investigator will soon present findings. Monetary policy will henceforth be for the benefit of all Nigerians, not just the powerful and wealthy.
Promoting Economic Fairness and Development
Wise tax policies are vital for economic fairness and development. With this in mind, a Committee on Tax Reforms has been inaugurated to improve the efficiency of tax administration and address fiscal policies that hinder the business environment and slow our growth.
Investing in Enterprise and Employment
We are providing investment funding for enterprises with great potential to boost employment and urban incomes. Additionally, we are increasing investment in micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises, as they play a vital role in driving economic growth.
Expanding Social Safety Nets
Beginning this month, we are extending the social safety net by expanding cash transfer programs to an additional 15 million vulnerable households. This expansion will provide much-needed support to those in need.
Ensuring National Security
The safety of our people is of utmost importance. We have enhanced inter-service collaboration and intelligence sharing. Our service chiefs have been tasked with rebuilding the capacities of our security services to ensure the safety and territorial integrity of our nation.
Fair Representation and Inclusion
My administration is committed to making key appointments in line with the provisions of the Constitution and with fairness to all. Women, youth, and the physically challenged will continue to be given due regard in these appointments.
Recognizing the Pillars of Democracy
I extend my congratulations to the National Assembly for its role in the smooth take-off of this administration through the performance of its constitutional duties. I also commend the judiciary for its unwavering commitment to democracy and fairness.
Appreciation for Civil Society and Labor
I would like to express my gratitude to our dynamic civil society organizations and labor unions for their unwavering dedication to Nigerian democracy. While we may not always agree, I value your advice and recommendations. You are my brothers and sisters, and you have my utmost respect.
Navigating the Journey Ahead
The road ahead will not be easy, but we must not be guided by fear or hatred. Our better Nigeria can only be achieved through courage, compassion, and commitment as one indivisible unit. I remain committed to serving you faithfully, and I invite every Nigerian to join me in remaking our beloved nation into its better self. Together, we can, we must, and we shall succeed!
On this occasion of Nigeria’s 63rd Independence Anniversary, I wish you all a happy celebration.
Thank you for your attention.
May God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
