Key Summary of President Tinubu’s Speech as he Marks Two Years in Office

Nigerians are marking two years of President Tinubu’s time in office. In his speech, he spoke about the hard changes his team made and the progress so far. He covered big topics like fixing the economy, improving health care, strengthening security, and building roads. 

President Tinubu began by praising Nigerians’ strength and patience over the past 24 months. He reminded everyone that they trusted him to guide the country through tough challenges, and he thanked them for standing by his side. Here are the main points explained in simple terms and why it matters to you as a Nigerian.

Ending Unsustainable Fuel Subsidies

The removal of long-standing fuel subsidies was one of his earliest actions. By ending this costly support, the government freed funds for schools, hospitals, and roads—preventing deeper economic trouble caused by paying billions of naira each month just to keep fuel prices low.

Closing Foreign Exchange Loopholes

Tinubu also shut down multiple foreign exchange windows that had become corrupt and wasteful. This move helped stabilize the naira by ensuring that all currency trading happened at a single, transparent rate.

Renewed Hope Agenda Goals

Under the “Renewed Hope Agenda,” the administration set out four big goals: rebuild public trust, boost the economy, fight corruption, and lift people out of poverty. Tinubu said these targets have guided every policy from day one.

Early Signs of Economic Recovery

He noted that inflation has started to fall, and everyday items like rice are becoming more affordable. In the oil and gas sector, more drilling rigs are active today than four years ago, bringing in over $8 billion in fresh investment.

Strengthening Public Finances

Thanks to better tax collection and spending controls, the federal deficit dropped from 5.4% of GDP in 2023 to 3.0% in 2024. Nigeria paid off its IMF loans and grew its foreign reserves from $4 billion to more than $23 billion in just one year.

Fairer, More Efficient Tax System

Tinubu’s tax reforms raised the share of taxes in the economy from 10% to 13.5% within twelve months. He simplified the system by removing extra levies, exempting essentials like food and healthcare from VAT, and creating clear incentives for key industries.

Reviving Solid Minerals and Agriculture

To diversify income beyond oil, the government encouraged local processing of minerals and supported farmers with tractors, tools, and fertiliser. These steps aim to boost food production, create jobs, and protect the country from global market shocks.

Upgrading Health Services Nationwide

Over 6,500 primary health centres have been rebuilt or improved. New cancer treatment centres are opening, and free dialysis and C-section services are available in pilot hospitals—helping families access vital care without heavy costs.

Bolstering National Security

Tinubu stressed that safety is essential for growth. He highlighted successes in clearing bandits from northwest regions, making highways safer, and rescuing kidnapped citizens—thanks to better coordination and intelligence among security agencies.

Investing in Education and Youth Empowerment

The speech detailed expanded student loans for needy undergraduates and new job-training programmes for young Nigerians. Small businesses received grants and support, helping to turn ideas into real enterprises and reduce unemployment.

Driving Innovation at NASENI

The National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure now uses digital tools to run efficient operations. Initiatives like Innovate Naija, renewable energy parks, and training programmes for female drone engineers showcase a push toward high-tech industry.

Major Infrastructure Projects

Hundreds of road projects from the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway to the Second Niger Bridge access road are underway to link regions and improve trade. Investments in power generation, transmission, and off-grid solar aim to bring electricity to homes and businesses.

Showcasing Nigeria to the World

Finally, Tinubu announced the upcoming Motherland Festival, a global event to celebrate Nigerian culture, tourism, and creativity. New policies like a diaspora bond and simplified banking for Nigerians abroad will invite investments and strengthen ties with the diaspora.