- President Bola Tinubu acknowledged the economic challenges Nigerians face but assured that reforms will soon bring relief
- The President outlined plans for job creation, youth engagement and empowerment programmes
- TheRadar compiled other key points from the President’s speech on Nigeria's 64th Independence anniversary
In a national broadcast to commemorate Nigeria's 64th Independence Anniversary, on Tuesday, October 1, President Bola Tinubu spoke directly to Nigerians, acknowledging the economic difficulties many are facing.
He emphasised that his reforms are beginning to bear fruit and announced the introduction of a 30-day national youth conference to boost youth participation in governance.
He urged the people to remain patient, assuring them that reliefs are expected in the near future.
TheRadar highlighted the key points from the President’s speech.
10 key points from Tinubu’s October 1 2024 speech
1. Tinubu acknowledges economic hardship
Acknowledging the significant economic hardships confronting many Nigerians, especially in terms of escalating living expenses and joblessness, President Tinubu called on the public to remain patient, stating, “I recognise the difficulties you face, and I assure you that this government is implementing reforms to ease your burdens.”
2. Employment and empowerment programme
The president announced the launch of the Renewed Hope Labour Employment and Empowerment Programme (LEEP), which seeks to create 2.5 million jobs on an annual basis.
“Our goal is to create more opportunities for our young people,” he spoke about the initiation of the 3 Million Technical Talents Programme and the Nigerian Education Loan Fund.
3. Youth engagement to address challenges
A National Youth Conference lasting 30 days will be initiated to address challenges related to education, employment, and innovation, “We believe in the power of our youth, and this conference will empower them to actively contribute to national development,” he disclosed.
4. Energy transition in transportation
The President outlined plans to enhance the Presidential Initiative on Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) in public transportation. “This initiative aims to provide affordable and environmentally friendly transit options for all Nigerians,” Tinubu noted, adding that it would be done in collaboration with private sector partners.
5. Agricultural initiatives
The president emphasised the need for states to embrace agricultural programs to elevate food production, stating,
“We have approved the establishment of a local assembly plant for 2,000 John Deere tractors and other farm equipment to support farmers nationwide.”
6. President shares progress on security
In his address, Tinubu highlighted significant advancements in the battle against terrorism and banditry, confirming the elimination of over 300 Boko Haram and bandit commanders.
He said, “We have achieved notable successes in the fight against insecurity, and I assure you that we are committed to completely eradicating terrorism, banditry, and violent extremism.”
7. Fiscal stability and foreign investment
The president noted that Nigeria had attracted over $30 billion in foreign direct investments in the last year, reflecting increasing confidence in the nation's economy.
“The growing confidence in our economy is evident, and we will continue to maintain fiscal stability to attract even more investments,” Tinubu stated.
8. Stability in forex exchange market
The president reassured the public about the foreign exchange market's stability, affirming that, “Despite the challenges we have faced, we have managed to stabilise the forex market, and our foreign reserves remain strong at $37 billion.”
He highlighted that the Central Bank has cleared a $7 billion foreign exchange backlog and debts exceeding N30 trillion.
9. National honours
As part of the Independence Day commemorations, Tinubu unveiled the recipients of the 2024 national honours.“It is my honour to recognise those who have made significant contributions to our nation,” He stated this while naming the honorees, which included the Senate President and the Chief Justice of the Federation.
10. Tinubu calls for national unity and resilience
In his concluding statements, President Tinubu encouraged Nigerians to maintain hope, resilience, and unity in addressing the nation’s difficulties stating, “Let us stand together as one nation, confident in our ability to overcome any obstacle. Better days are ahead for Nigeria.”
Nigeria at 64: Celebrating the heroes who made Independence possible
Meanwhile, TheRadar earlier reported that the drive for Nigeria’s independence on October 1, 1960, was fueled by activists and politicians who dedicated themselves to liberating the nation from colonial rule.
As the country celebrates its 64th anniversary, TheRadar compiled some of the heroes who led the way to the nation’s independence.