Tayo Busayo, Abuja
DAILY COURIER - As Nigeria approaches its 64th Independence Anniversary, the Federal Government has outlined a series of activities to commemorate this milestone. During a world press briefing held at the National Press Centre in Abuja, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, highlighted the significance of the anniversary as a time for reflection, celebration, and renewed hope.
Speaking at the event, Idris acknowledged Nigeria's journey since gaining independence in 1960, celebrating the resilience, strength, and unity that the country has demonstrated despite various challenges. “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,” the Minister remarked.
Idris emphasized that Nigeria's 25 years of uninterrupted democracy is a testament to the enduring will of the people to achieve and sustain freedom and liberty. He noted that, under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s leadership, the country is undergoing transformative reforms aimed at correcting past missteps and positioning Nigeria as a future economic powerhouse.
The Minister touched on several key reforms, including fiscal and economic policies, such as stabilizing the foreign exchange regime, tax reforms, and efforts to attract investments in the oil and gas sector. He also highlighted the government's move toward local government autonomy, which President Tinubu has initiated by seeking a Supreme Court verdict to ensure elected local governments gain direct fiscal control. This, Idris explained, would enhance governance and development at the grassroots level, promoting accountability.
Energy reform was also a major talking point, with the Minister emphasizing President Tinubu’s commitment to transitioning Nigeria from reliance on fossil fuels to Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) for vehicles and machinery. The ongoing rollout of CNG infrastructure, Idris explained, is expected to reduce transportation costs by up to 60%, create jobs, and attract both local and foreign investment.
Education and youth development remain central to the administration’s agenda. Idris praised the newly established Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND), which was created under the 2024 Student Loans Act, providing Nigerian students with access to affordable and sustainable tertiary education. The Minister further highlighted the establishment of the Consumer Credit Corporation, designed to make credit more accessible and flexible for Nigerians.
Despite global economic challenges, Idris expressed optimism about Nigeria’s future, pointing to emerging signs of progress, including a drop in inflation for two consecutive months, military successes against criminal elements, and the positive impacts of government initiatives such as business grants and student loans.
As part of efforts to foster moral and ethical reawakening, the Minister announced that the Federal Executive Council had ratified a National Values Charter. This initiative, spearheaded by the Ministry of Information and National Orientation, seeks to promote a sense of nationhood and ethical responsibility among Nigerians, strengthening unity and cohesion.
In closing, Idris thanked Nigerians for their resilience during this period of economic transition, expressing confidence that the sacrifices made will soon yield positive results. He called for continued unity and collaboration among citizens in building a stronger, more prosperous nation.
The press briefing also featured remarks from the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, who chairs the Inter-Ministerial Committee on Nigeria’s 64th Independence Anniversary. Akume echoed Idris’s sentiments, urging Nigerians to reflect on the progress made and to look forward to a brighter future for the country.
As Nigeria marks another year of independence, the government remains committed to addressing the country's challenges while promoting sustainable development and prosperity for all its citizens.
