Nigeria @65: 12 major achievements Tinubu highlighted in Independence Day speech

President Bola Tinubu has listed some of his administration’s achievements as Nigeria celebrates its 65th independence anniversary.

In his Independence Day address on Wednesday, the President outlined key reforms and economic milestones his administration has made in the past 28 months.

Below are the highlights:

1. Record Non-Oil Revenue Growth
   Tinubu said his administration has broadened government earnings beyond crude oil.
   “We have achieved a record increase in non-oil revenue, reaching the 2025 target by August with over N20 trillion. In September 2025 alone, we raised N3.65 trillion, which is 411 percent higher than the amount raised in May 2023.”
2. Improved Fiscal Health
   The President emphasized that Nigeria’s debt servicing burden has been significantly reduced.
   “Our debt service-to-revenue ratio has decreased from 97% to below 50%. We have paid down the infamous ‘Ways and Means’ advances that put our economic stability at risk.”
3. Stronger Foreign Reserves
   Tinubu noted an increase in external reserves, providing Nigeria with a buffer against global shocks.
   “Our external reserves grew to $42.03 billion this September, the highest since 2019.”
4. Rising Tax-to-GDP Ratio
   According to the President, his government is broadening its tax base without placing too much burden on ordinary Nigerians.
   “Our tax-to-GDP ratio has risen to 13.5 percent from under 10 percent. The new tax law will expand the base and offer tax relief to low-income earners.”
5. Nigeria Now a Net Exporter
   Tinubu also emphasized that for the first time in years, Nigeria is selling more to the world than it is buying.
   “Nigeria has achieved a trade surplus for five consecutive quarters. Non-oil exports now account for 48 percent, compared to oil exports at 52 percent.”
6. Oil Production Rebound
   He added that crude output has increased after years of underperformance.
   “Oil production rose to 1.68 million barrels per day from just over one million in May 2023. The country has made significant progress by refining PMS domestically for the first time in four decades.”
7. Stabilization of the Naira
   The foreign exchange reforms, Tinubu said, have reduced volatility.
   “The Naira has stabilized. The multiple exchange rates, which led to corruption and arbitrage, are now a thing of the past.”
8. Social Investment in Vulnerable Households
   “Under the social investment program, N330 billion has been distributed to eight million households, many of whom have received one or two out of the three payments of N25,000 each.”
9. Solid Minerals Sector Growth
   In mining, Tinubu reported that coal mining has rebounded, indicating diversification in natural resources.
   “Coal mining recovered from a 22% decline in Q1 to 57.5% growth in Q2, becoming one of Nigeria’s fastest-growing sectors.”
10. Transport Infrastructure Expansion
    The President stated that his administration is speeding up work on major rail and highway projects.
    “The 284-kilometre Kano-Kastina-Maradi rail project and the Kaduna-Kano rail line are nearing completion. Work is ongoing on the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway and Sokoto-Badagry Highway.”
11. Global Recognition of Economic Reforms
    Tinubu said international markets are responding positively.
    “Sovereign credit rating agencies have upgraded their outlook for Nigeria. Our stock market is seeing a remarkable boom, rising from an all-share index of 55,000 points in May 2003 to 142,000 points as of September 26, 2025.”
12. Monetary Policy Confidence
    The Central Bank has reacted by lowering interest rates.
    “At its last MPC meeting, the Central Bank cut interest rates for the first time in five years, showing confidence in our country’s economic stability.”