President Bola Tinubu marked his third year in office with a bold defense of his administration’s sweeping economic reforms, describing Nigeria as being in the midst of a “historic national test” that demands sacrifice and courage to avert collapse. In a nationwide address on Friday, Tinubu revealed he inherited an economy on the brink of fiscal breakdown, burdened by fuel subsidies costing up to N18.4 billion daily, exchange-rate distortions, and rising debt.
“History tests nations before it elevates them,” Tinubu said, acknowledging the pain of rising living costs but insisting the reforms are restoring stability. He cited gains across infrastructure, energy, telecoms, housing, and education, including 2,700 kilometers of new highways, a $5 billion NLNG Train 7 project nearing completion, and a stock market surge from 53,000 to 250,000 points. The president also highlighted the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND), which has disbursed over N282 billion to 1.5 million students.
While admitting challenges remain, Tinubu stressed that the reforms—including subsidy removal and exchange-rate unification—have attracted billions in foreign investment and improved energy security. He called for unity, urging Nigerians not to surrender to cynicism, and promised the next phase will focus on lowering food prices, transport costs, and expanding jobs. “We chose reform over ruin,” he declared, vowing to continue until every Nigerian can live and work in safety.
