From Cyril Mbah, Abuja.
The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress, (APC), Professor Nentawe Yilwatda Goshwe, has congratulated Nigerians at home and in the Diaspora on the occasion of Nigeria’s 66th Independence Anniversary, describing it as a moment to celebrate the resilience, unity and enduring faith of Nigerians in the greatness of their country.
In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media and Information Strategy, Abimbola Tooki, on Wednesday, Professor Yilwatda commended citizens for their sacrifices, patience and determination in navigating the difficult challenges confronting the nation, noting that Nigeria has consistently demonstrated extraordinary capacity to overcome adversity.
The APC National Chairman said Nigeria’s journey since independence has not been without difficulties, but the country has continued to reinvent itself and move forward, adding that the current administration inherited a difficult economic situation and took politically difficult decisions to correct longstanding structural distortions.
He listed some of the fundamental reforms undertaken by the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to include the removal of petrol subsidy, reforms to the foreign-exchange market, efforts to strengthen domestic revenue mobilization, monetary and fiscal reforms, and measures aimed at attracting investment and strengthening productive sectors of the economy.
Professor Yilwatda acknowledged that these reforms have involved significant short-term sacrifices for Nigerians, but said there are increasingly measurable signs of macroeconomic stabilisation, citing World Bank reports of stronger economic growth, improved fiscal and external positions, rising foreign-exchange reserves and a more stable forex market.
He pointed to data showing that Nigeria’s real GDP grew by 4.2 percent in the first half of 2026 according to the World Bank, while gross foreign reserves reached $51.9 billion at the end of July 2026, describing these as important outcomes of the reform programme.
The National Chairman also referenced developments in the energy sector, investment, digital economy and social protection as evidence that the reform programme is moving beyond stabilisation towards structural transformation, with the ultimate objective being an economy that creates jobs and expands opportunities for young Nigerians.
He stated, “We acknowledge the progress that has been recorded and, more importantly, recognise that the work is not finished. Economic stabilisation will now translate more rapidly into improved household incomes, employment, food security and greater opportunities for our people.”
Professor Yilwatda said the APC recognises that democracy is ultimately about improving lives and that political leadership must remain accountable, assuring that the party would continue to support policies that promote economic growth, national security, social inclusion and institutional development.
He called on Nigerians to use the anniversary to reflect on the nation’s journey and to examine the records and plans of all parties ahead of 2027, expressing confidence that Nigeria has the human and natural resources to emerge stronger. He urged citizens to remain hopeful and patriotic.
“On this 66th Independence Anniversary, let us celebrate Nigeria, believe in Nigeria and continue to work together for the Nigeria we all desire. Our best days are still ahead of us,” Yilwatda concluded.
