Mariam Shettima
Nigeria is celebrating 64 years of independence, an opportunity to reflect on the country’s journey since 1960, its achievements, ongoing development projects and the promising future ahead. This year’s celebrations are particularly significant as they coincide with the inauguration of a new government under President Bola Tinubu. His vision and leadership aim to lead the country into a new era of economic prosperity, infrastructure development, and national unity.
Since independence, Nigeria has transformed from a largely agricultural economy into Africa’s largest economy, driven by oil exports, manufacturing, and an increasingly dynamic technology sector. Over the years, successive governments have undertaken numerous development projects aimed at building infrastructure, strengthening security, improving healthcare, and expanding educational opportunities.
In recent years, Nigeria has significantly improved its transport sector. Major road projects such as the Abuja-Kaduna-Zaria-Kano road and the Second Niger Bridge are helping to ease movement and commerce across the country. Railway infrastructure was also expanded with the construction of the Lagos-Ibadan and Abuja-Kaduna railways, increasing both commuter convenience and economic activity.
The power sector remains a key component of Nigeria’s development agenda. Initiatives such as the Siemens Presidential Power Initiative (PPI) aim to significantly increase electricity generation and distribution across the country. Hydropower projects such as the Zungeru Hydropower Plant are commissioned to complement Nigeria’s energy mix.
Agriculture is also a focus of Nigeria’s efforts to diversify its economy away from oil dependence. The Anchor Borrower Program has helped increase local rice production, reduce imports and create jobs for millions of Nigerians. Such initiatives will not only promote food security but also position Nigeria as a potential agricultural hub in West Africa.
The rise of Nigeria’s tech ecosystem, particularly cities such as Lagos and Abuja, has made the country a leading force in Africa’s digital economy. Nigerian fintech startups such as Flutterwave and Paystack are gaining global recognition and contributing to a digital revolution that promises to reshape sectors such as banking, e-commerce and education.
Since taking office, President Bola Tinubu’s administration has articulated a vision centered on economic recovery, good governance and infrastructure development. His New Hopes agenda focuses on key areas critical to Nigeria’s future growth, including infrastructure expansion, energy sector reform, economic diversification, job creation and youth empowerment.
The Tinubu administration is committed to completing ongoing projects, especially in the transport sector. His government has shown a strong commitment to accelerating the construction of vital road networks, expanding the rail system and modernizing airports. The administration also aims to revive Nigeria’s inland waterways and reduce stress on roads.
The administration has prioritized addressing Nigeria’s longstanding power challenges. Under Tinubu’s leadership, the government is increasing investment in renewable energy projects and implementing important reforms in the power sector to improve efficiency. The Siemens power project is expected to make significant progress during Tinubu’s tenure, with the goal of providing reliable electricity to millions of Nigerians.
Continuing its efforts to diversify Nigeria’s economy, President Tinubu’s administration has focused on sectors such as agriculture, mining and manufacturing. The administration is also offering incentives to boost local production and encourage foreign investment.
One of the main pillars of Mr. Tinubu’s leadership is addressing Nigeria’s unemployment crisis. The government is committed to creating employment opportunities for young people through entrepreneurship programmes, vocational training and support for small and medium enterprises (SMEs). The administration’s focus on expanding digital infrastructure is expected to create more opportunities for tech-savvy youth.
In an important step towards inclusive growth, Tinubu introduced several social safety nets aimed at supporting the most vulnerable in society. The government provides subsidies to vulnerable people, including widows, the elderly, and people living with disabilities, to cushion the impact of economic hardship. These grants serve as a lifeline for many and demonstrate the government’s commitment to leaving no Nigerian behind.
In my opinion, Mr. Tinubu has also demonstrated a commitment to reforming Nigeria’s health and education sectors, which are critical to the long-term development of the country. The administration seeks to improve access to quality health care and education, particularly in underserved and rural areas, by investing in infrastructure, training personnel, and improving service delivery.
Although Nigeria faces challenges such as economic weakness, insecurity and lack of infrastructure, the future looks promising. With the strategic leadership of President Bola Tinubu, Nigeria is on the path to sustainable development.
The president’s focus on inclusive growth, coupled with his experience in governance and ability to foster cooperation across political and ethnic lines, gives hope that Nigeria can overcome challenges. Ongoing reforms in key sectors such as power, infrastructure and the economy indicate that Nigeria is poised to regain its position as a regional power and Africa’s beacon of hope.
As we celebrate 64 years of independence, it is clear that Nigeria’s best days are yet to come. The resilience and visionary leadership of Nigerians means the country can look forward to a future filled with opportunity, progress and prosperity. Yes, we believe in Tinubu and the future of our great country.
As Nigeria celebrates its 64th anniversary of independence, the country stands at the threshold of a new era. With President Bola Tinubu at the helm, Nigeria is well placed to achieve greater heights in infrastructure, economic diversification and human capital development. The journey is long and we face many challenges, but the promise of Nigeria’s bright future is stronger than ever. Happy Independence Day to Nigeria.
Mariam Shettima writes from Abuja.
