Nigeria at 65: Tinubu’s reforms unmatched in history – Minister of Information

Nigeria has never experienced the scale and speed of reforms currently underway under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has declared.

Speaking at a world press conference in Abuja on Monday to mark Nigeria’s 65th Independence anniversary, Idris described Tinubu as a “committed, courageous and visionary leader” who is dismantling decades-old obstacles to national progress.

“As we mark this 65th year since our independence from Great Britain, we are all witnesses to the remarkable reforms taking shape at a pace never before seen,” the Minister said.

Economic reforms and impact

Idris noted that Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, anchored on eight priority areas, is driving economic renewal and social investment. He pointed to signs of recovery including:

• A growing trade surplus, driven by the non-oil sector
• Declining inflation and falling food prices
• A strengthening naira
• Expanding foreign reserves

From January 2026, the government will begin implementing the Tax Acts quartet, which Idris said will widen the revenue base while simplifying tax collection and reducing the burden on ordinary Nigerians.

Investment in people

The Minister highlighted Tinubu’s focus on social development, citing heavy investments in health, education, infrastructure, agriculture, energy, security, and youth empowerment.

He revealed that more than 500,000 students across universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education are already benefitting from the National Education Loan Fund (NELFUND)—a scheme covering tuition and upkeep fees.

“This is unprecedented in our history,” Idris stressed.

He also pointed to the creation of five new regional development commissions, alongside a new supervising ministry, as evidence of Tinubu’s drive for grassroots progress.

Call for unity

Idris urged Nigerians at home and abroad to support Tinubu’s reforms, noting that the theme of this year’s Independence celebration, “All Hands on Deck”, underscores the need for collective participation in rebuilding the nation.

“Our nation is gradually recapturing the spirit of people-centered, grassroots development,” he said, calling for patience and unity as the reforms take root.