President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Tuesday,  addressed Nigerians in a national broadcast to commemorate the country’s 64th Independence Anniversary.

He acknowledged the struggles citizens face, particularly rising living costs and unemployment, and assured them that his administration is working to alleviate their suffering.

The President used the opportunity of the broadcast to announce a 30-day National Youth Conference which will serve as a platform to address the diverse challenges and opportunities confronting the young people in the country.

Tinubu reflected on Nigeria’s progress since independence, highlighting its resilience and determination to build a better nation, saying “despite challenges, Nigeria remains a strong, united, and viable sovereign nation.”

The President emphasised his administration’s commitment to reforming the economy and defense architecture, citing successes in the war against terror and banditry.

Key initiatives mentioned include:

-Economic Reforms: Attracting over $30 billion in foreign direct investments, improving foreign exchange market stability, and reducing debt service ratio from 97% to 68%.

-Agricultural Development: Establishing a local assembly plant for farm equipment and promoting mechanized farming.

-Energy Transition: Expanding the Presidential Initiative on Compressed Natural Gas for mass transit.

-Youth Empowerment: Launching the National Youth Conference, 3 Million Technical Talents programme, Nigerian Education Loan Fund, and Renewed Hope Labour Employment and Empowerment Programme.

Tinubu urged Nigerians to believe in the nation’s promise and work together towards a brighter future, where every citizen has access to opportunities and every child grows up with hope and promise.