National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Professor Nentawe Yilwatda, has congratulated Nigerians on the country’s 66th Independence Anniversary, describing the occasion as an opportunity to celebrate their resilience, unity and faith in Nigeria’s future.
In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media and Information Strategy, Abimbola Tooki, Yilwatda commended Nigerians at home and in the diaspora for their sacrifices, patience and determination in navigating the challenges confronting the country.
He said Nigeria’s journey since independence had been marked by difficulties, but the country had consistently demonstrated the capacity to overcome adversity, reinvent itself and move forward.
Yilwatda said the administration of President Bola Tinubu inherited what he described as a difficult economic situation and embarked on fundamental reforms aimed at addressing longstanding structural challenges.
He listed the removal of the petrol subsidy, foreign exchange reforms, efforts to strengthen domestic revenue mobilisation, monetary and fiscal reforms, and measures to attract investment and strengthen productive sectors among the major steps taken by the administration.
The APC chairman acknowledged that the reforms had imposed significant short-term difficulties on Nigerians but said there were signs of macroeconomic stabilisation.
He cited World Bank figures showing that Nigeria’s real gross domestic product grew by 4.2 per cent in the first half of 2026, while gross foreign exchange reserves reached $51.9bn at the end of July. The World Bank has independently reported the same figures, while noting that growth remains insufficient to generate enough productive jobs and materially reduce poverty.
Yilwatda also pointed to developments in the energy sector, investment, the digital economy and social protection as indications that the reform programme was moving beyond economic stabilisation towards structural transformation.
“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,” he said.
He said the ultimate objective should be an economy capable of creating jobs, expanding opportunities for young Nigerians, strengthening businesses, improving infrastructure and raising the quality of life of families.
Yilwatda also said the APC recognised that democracy should remain focused on improving the lives of citizens and that political leadership must be accountable to the people.
He assured Nigerians that the party would continue to support policies aimed at promoting economic growth, national security, social inclusion, investment and institutional development.
The APC national chairman urged Nigerians to use the Independence anniversary to reflect on the country’s journey, the challenges that remain and the opportunities ahead.
He also encouraged citizens to examine the records, policies, programmes and future plans of political parties and candidates ahead of the 2027 general elections and to participate actively in the democratic process.
Yilwatda expressed confidence in Nigeria’s human resources, natural endowments and entrepreneurial potential, saying these could help the country build a stronger and more prosperous future.
“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,” he said.
He urged Nigerians to remain hopeful and patriotic, saying the challenges facing the country should not obscure the possibilities ahead.
“The task before us is to ensure that the reforms and sacrifices of today translate into lasting prosperity and opportunity for generations yet unborn,” he added.
Yilwatda wished Nigerians a happy 66th Independence Anniversary and prayed for continued peace, stability, prosperity and unity across the country.
