As Nigeria approaches its 64th Independence Day, the Federal Government has praised the nation for maintaining 25 years of unbroken democracy, calling it a reflection of the people’s determination to uphold freedom and liberty for future generations.
During a World Press Briefing held in Abuja on Thursday, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, spoke about Nigeria’s journey since its independence, describing it as a story of resilience, strength, and progress, despite the challenges faced along the way. He further highlighted Nigeria’s rise as a dominant force within Africa and an influential voice in global matters.
“This is a time of reflection, celebration, and renewed hope as we honour the journey of Nigeria, a nation that has demonstrated resilience, strength, capacity, and an unyielding spirit in the face of numerous and daunting challenges.
Since gaining independence in 1960, Nigeria has evolved from a nation of hope and potential into a leading force on the African continent and a respected voice in the global community. We have faced numerous trials, from political upheavals to economic challenges, but each time, we have risen stronger through our shared, unwavering vision of a united and prosperous country,” the Minister said.
Idris also praised the current administration under President Bola Tinubu, noting its implementation of various reforms aimed at transforming the country’s economy despite prevailing global challenges. He emphasized that these reforms were designed to reverse past missteps and reposition Nigeria on the path to becoming a major economic player.
“Under the visionary leadership of President Tinubu, we have initiated transformative policies and reforms aimed at correcting the missteps of the past and repositioning Nigeria as an economic superpower in the near future,” he added.
One of the key reforms discussed was the push for local government autonomy, a longstanding issue that has hampered development in rural areas. Idris pointed out that the President had taken the decisive step of seeking a Supreme Court verdict to implement this autonomy, marking a significant shift towards strengthening grassroots governance.
Economic policies also took center stage during the briefing, with the Minister stressing that the removal of petroleum subsidies has laid the foundation for Nigeria’s shift to Compressed Natural Gas (CNG), a move expected to lower transportation costs and attract considerable investment into the country.
Additionally, he highlighted efforts to reform the tax system, stabilize the foreign exchange market, and diversify government revenues, all aimed at ensuring macroeconomic stability.
In terms of education, the Minister highlighted the establishment of the Nigerian Education Loan Fund, a product of the Student Loans Act of 2024, which was created to improve access to tertiary education for Nigerian youths.
He acknowledged that while the economic reforms presented immediate challenges, the government is confident that the sacrifices made today would yield substantial benefits in the near future.
“There is light at the end of the tunnel. Our sacrifices will not be in vain,” he assured Nigerians.
Furthermore, the press briefing highlighted Nigeria’s recent victories in the fight against insecurity and the steady decline in inflation rates. The government continues to provide support to small businesses through grants and financial incentives, further boosting economic recovery.
READ ALSO: FG Proposes NIN Amendment to include Foreigners in Tax Payments Acts
Idris concluded by urging Nigerians to remain united and dedicated to building a nation that serves as a symbol of hope and progress for black people around the world. He also introduced the forthcoming National Values Charter, which seeks to promote moral, ethical, and cultural reawakening across the nation.
The event was chaired by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, who, in his remarks, commended the Tinubu administration for its numerous accomplishments that have positively impacted the lives of Nigerian citizens.
“Before I unveil the approved programme of activities, I wish to mention a few of the accomplishments of this administration that impact our citizens in their daily lives,” Akume stated.
He went on to highlight the President’s commitment to easing transportation difficulties for Nigerians through the establishment of the Presidential CNG Initiative and the launch of the first fleet of hybrid CNG buses.
“This is a work in progress because the Presidential Initiative is designed to expand across all geo-political zones of the country. The government has also commissioned the first retrofitted CNG train head for the Abuja-Kaduna track. This is intended to cut the cost of travel by up to fifty per cent when fully operational. To encourage conversion to CNG-powered land transportation, the government has also commenced the distribution of CNG conversion kits at no cost to Nigerians. The benefit of the CNG transport system to Nigerians is a huge reduction in cost,” he said.
Akume further highlighted the government’s focus on empowering Nigerians to start or grow businesses, noting that small and medium enterprises (SMEs) serve as the backbone of the economy. He added that the President has also revamped the National Social Investment Programme to better address the needs of the underprivileged and the elderly.
Nigerian workers have equally benefited from a newly approved National Minimum Wage, which comes after the Wage Award was introduced to help mitigate workers’ financial struggles.
In addition, Akume disclosed that over 22,000 students had received a total of N2.5 billion from the Nigerian Students Loan Fund, offering significant financial relief to parents and providing greater educational opportunities to deserving students.
“In the area of human capital development, the Nigerian Students Loan Fund has disbursed the sum of N2.5bn to over 22,120 beneficiaries across higher institutions in the nation. This is a welcome relief for parents and an opportunity to access education by indigent students,” he noted.
On the issue of national security, Akume affirmed that the government’s efforts to tackle insurgency, banditry, and other criminal activities have begun to show results. Many insurgents and bandits have either been neutralized or have surrendered for deradicalization.
Akume also addressed the devastating impact of recent floods in various parts of the country. He emphasized that the government has stepped up its efforts in disaster planning and prevention, drawing lessons from the current situation to mitigate future occurrences.
“The rainy season has similarly posed its challenges. As a result of climate change and other environmental factors, the country has experienced serious flooding in several states, resulting in fatalities and destruction of infrastructure, personal belongings, shelter, livelihoods, etc.
The humanitarian response of the Federal Government has been swift and effective. The government has drawn lessons from the current situation and has stepped up planning and prevention strategies,” he said.
Akume reassured Nigerians that the President is fully aware of the nation’s economic challenges, adding that the administration is working tirelessly to alleviate the immediate effects while laying the groundwork for sustainable economic growth in the short, medium, and long term.
The event also announced the upcoming “Independence Walk,” as part of the activities marking the country’s 64th Independence celebrations on October 1, 2024.
