President Bola Tinubu has assured Nigerians that the sacrifices made since his administration began in 2023 have not been in vain, insisting that the country is now on a path of recovery and stability as he marked his third year in office.

In a nationwide message commemorating the anniversary, Tinubu reflected on the economic hardship triggered by key reforms, while maintaining that difficult decisions were necessary to prevent a deeper national crisis.

Tinubu Defends Economic Reforms

The President said his administration inherited severe economic and structural challenges, including fuel subsidy payments, forex distortions, rising debt servicing costs, and insecurity across several regions.

According to him, Nigeria was spending as much as ₦18.4 billion daily on fuel subsidy before it was removed, a move he described as necessary to redirect resources into critical sectors like infrastructure and healthcare.

He added that foreign exchange reforms had also helped stabilise the economy, reducing losses linked to currency speculation and multiple exchange rates.

Tinubu stated that while the reforms caused short-term hardship, they were unavoidable for long-term national recovery.

Claims Of Economic Recovery

The President said Nigeria’s economy is now more competitive, pointing to improved public finances, rising investor confidence, and stronger capital market performance.

He noted that the Nigerian Stock Exchange has grown significantly since 2023, with market capitalisation rising sharply over the period.

Tinubu also highlighted ongoing infrastructure projects, including over 2,700 kilometres of roads under construction, alongside major highway and rail developments aimed at boosting trade and connectivity.

He further said reforms in the oil and gas sector had attracted new investments, including progress on the NLNG Train 7 project.

Security And Governance Focus

On security, Tinubu said his administration remains committed to tackling terrorism, banditry, and other violent crimes across the country.

He said security agencies have intensified operations and that some communities are now safer compared to previous years, although he acknowledged that challenges still remain.

The President added that investments in intelligence, surveillance, and military capacity are ongoing to strengthen national security.

Social Programmes And Youth Initiatives

Tinubu also highlighted interventions in education, housing, agriculture, and healthcare.

He said over 1.5 million students have benefited from the Nigerian Education Loan Fund, while housing projects across several states have created thousands of jobs.

He added that agricultural support programmes are helping farmers improve productivity and reduce food costs, while digital initiatives are expanding opportunities for young Nigerians.

Call For National Unity

The President urged Nigerians to remain united and patient, stressing that national development requires collective effort and long-term commitment.

He said the country has overcome major historical challenges in the past and expressed optimism that Nigeria will emerge stronger from its current difficulties.

Tinubu also called on citizens to reject division and focus on building a more inclusive and prosperous nation.

He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to security, economic reform, and national development, saying the ultimate goal is to ensure that every Nigerian can live and work in safety and dignity.