• Governors urged to lead in achieving Nigeria's prosperity, development
'Seun Ibukun-Oni, Abuja
Tayo Busayo, Abuja
DAILY COURIER – In a hopeful and forward-looking New Year message, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu assured Nigerians that 2025 will usher in brighter days, despite the challenges of 2024. Acknowledging the difficulties faced by the citizens, including high inflation and unemployment, the President expressed confidence that the coming year would mark the beginning of a new chapter of prosperity and growth for the nation.
"I am confident that the New Year will bring brighter days. We are on the right path to building a great Nigeria that will work for everyone," President Tinubu stated, as he addressed the nation on January 1, 2025.
The President highlighted the economic progress made in 2024, citing the decline in fuel prices, consecutive foreign trade surpluses, an increase in foreign reserves, and the strengthening of the Naira. He emphasized that these positive developments were a sign of recovery, while reaffirming his administration’s commitment to alleviating the struggles of Nigerians by tackling high living costs.
"While progress has been made, the cost of food and essential drugs remains a significant concern. In 2025, our government is committed to addressing these issues by boosting food production and promoting local manufacturing of medical supplies," Tinubu added.
A central part of the government’s strategy to stimulate economic growth in 2025 includes the establishment of the National Credit Guarantee Company. This initiative, slated to start operations by the second quarter of the year, aims to expand access to credit for individuals and key sectors of the economy, fostering national economic growth and greater financial inclusion.
As part of his administration's broader vision, the President unveiled plans for a National Values Charter to be launched in the first quarter of 2025. This initiative will promote ethical values, unity, and patriotism among Nigerians, further strengthening the nation's collective identity.
"Let us become better citizens, committed to our shared values and the prosperity of Nigeria," he urged.
In his speech, President Tinubu also stressed the importance of the youth in nation-building, announcing that a Youth Confab will be launched in Q1 2025. The initiative aims to ensure youth inclusiveness and investment in shaping the future of Nigeria. The Ministry of Youth will soon announce the process for selecting participants for the conference, which will engage young Nigerians in national development discussions.
"I urge you to continue believing in yourselves and keeping faith in our blessed country," the President said as he appealed to the nation's youth to take an active role in shaping the country's future.
Furthermore, President Tinubu commended governors for embracing sustainable energy initiatives, such as the adoption of CNG-propelled public transport and electric vehicles, urging all states to collaborate with the central government to seize emerging opportunities in agriculture, livestock, and tax reforms.
Looking ahead, the President reassured Nigerians that their sacrifices over the past 19 months will not go in vain and promised that the government’s efforts to improve the economy and standard of living will continue into 2025 and beyond.
"Together, let us stay the course of nation-building. The New Year will bring us closer to the bright future we all desire and the Nigeria of our dreams," Tinubu concluded.
In this message, the President conveyed hope and optimism, promising that 2025 will be a year of transformation, with substantial reforms aimed at securing a prosperous and united Nigeria for all citizens.
Governors urged to lead in achieving Nigeria's prosperity, development
President Bola Tinubu, on Wednesday in Lagos, emphasised the critical role of state governors in driving Nigeria's development and prosperity, saying their leadership at the subnational level is central to achieving food security, economic prosperity, and rapid national growth.
During a New Year homage by Vice President Kashim Shettima and members of the Nigeria Governors Forum (NGF) at his Ikoyi residence, the President expressed his gratitude for their support and collaboration while highlighting key areas requiring joint effort for the nation's progress.
"You are the most important link to Nigeria's prosperity and development. The Federal Government accounts for about 30 to 35 percent of the allocated revenue; the rest comes to you. The agricultural value chain depends on you. You own the land, and the job is in your hands," he said.
President Tinubu called for stronger collaboration between the federal and state governments to address pressing challenges, including local government autonomy, agricultural productivity, and currency stability.
Expressing his commitment to local government development and autonomy, the President stressed its importance for grassroots development and dispelled rumors of disagreement with the governors.
"We will not fight within us. I will drive the change. You control your local governments. You can restore hope by effectively fulfilling what the people expect at the grassroots level," he remarked.
"There were gossips that we had disagreements on local government autonomy. No. Just drive development at the local government. Nobody wants to take them away from you, but we need collaboration. Let's do it together and ensure Nigeria is better off for it."
The President urged governors to prioritize agricultural growth as a pathway to economic stability.
"We have to work harder, grow more, and ensure the situation of our currency improves. Nigeria will see prosperity, but it requires consistent effort from all of us," he said.
He also urged the governors to take pride in their efforts and acknowledged their progress across the states.
"There is no state we cannot visit and be proud of its development. We have better allocations now. Let me take the abuse; you take the privileges. Together, we will build a nation we are all proud of," he said.
Reflecting on his leadership journey in the last 19 months, the President expressed confidence in Nigeria's capacity to thrive given the resilience and leadership demonstrated by the administration.
"I am glad I asked for this job, and Nigerians gave me the mandate. We'll be on this voyage together. I thank all of you for where we are today and where we are heading," he said.
The President announced that he will be visiting Enugu State on January 4 as part of his planned visits to some states of the federation.
In closing, he commended the governors for their continued support and partnership in achieving the Renewed Hope Agenda, promising that their collective efforts would lead Nigeria to a prosperous future.
