As we step into the year 2025, I extend my heartfelt wishes to all Nigerians for a joyful, prosperous, and healthy New Year. It is my sincere hope that this year brings each of us the fulfillment of our aspirations and blessings of success, peace, and well-being.

 

The arrival of a new year naturally fills us with optimism and the anticipation of brighter days. I firmly believe that 2025 will be a year of great opportunities, marked by progress and the realization of collective ambitions, all thanks to God’s grace.

 

Reflecting on the past year, 2024 presented its fair share of challenges for many of our citizens and households, but I am confident that the year ahead will usher in a period of renewal and positive change. The new year carries with it hope for improved circumstances and a chance for all Nigerians to experience better days ahead.

 

Positive Economic Outlook for 2025

The economic landscape for Nigeria looks promising as we welcome 2025. Several key indicators suggest that our nation is poised for growth. The recent decline in fuel prices, the achievement of foreign trade surpluses for three consecutive quarters, and an increase in foreign reserves all point to a stable and strengthening economy. Notably, the Naira has gained strength against the US dollar, a positive sign of improved stability in the financial sector.

 

In addition to these improvements, Nigeria’s stock market has witnessed extraordinary growth, creating trillions of naira in wealth and attracting significant foreign investments. This reflects renewed confidence in our economy, positioning us for greater success in the coming year. However, despite these positive trends, the high cost of food and essential drugs remains a critical issue for many households.

 

In response, my administration is fully committed to reducing the cost of living. Our focus will be on increasing local food production and enhancing the domestic manufacturing of essential medicines and medical supplies. We are resolute in our ambition to lower the current inflation rate of 34.6% to a more manageable 15% by the end of the year. With hard work, innovation, and divine assistance, I am confident we can achieve this goal and alleviate the financial burden on our people.

 

Government’s Commitment to Credit Expansion

Looking ahead to 2025, our government will continue to prioritize economic growth by expanding access to credit for individuals and key sectors. To support this goal, we will establish the National Credit Guarantee Company, a new initiative designed to increase access to financing for small businesses and critical industries. This company, which will be operational by the end of the second quarter, will involve a partnership between government agencies, the private sector, and multilateral financial institutions. The initiative aims to strengthen the financial system, promote entrepreneurship, and support underserved groups, including women and youth. By expanding access to credit, we will drive national growth, foster industrialization, and improve living standards for all Nigerians.

 

Gratitude and Commitment to Service

On a personal note, I want to express my deepest gratitude to the Nigerian people for entrusting me with the responsibility of leading our great nation. Your trust humbles me, and I assure you that I will continue to serve you with dedication and sincerity. As we embark on the journey of the New Year, I promise to remain steadfast in my commitment to serving you and fulfilling our shared vision of a better, more prosperous Nigeria.

 

Our administration will continue to implement the necessary reforms that will ensure sustainable growth and prosperity for our nation. However, this can only be achieved through the collective effort of every Nigerian. I ask for your continued cooperation and support as we work together to build a robust and resilient economy that benefits all citizens. Let us stay focused and united in our pursuit of a one trillion-dollar economy, and let us not allow ourselves to be distracted by divisions based on politics, ethnicity, region, or religion. We are all Nigerians, and we must remain united in our common goal of national development.

 

The Importance of Citizenship and Shared Values

For us to achieve our national goals and objectives, it is essential that we all embrace the values of good citizenship. A strong, united Nigeria can only be built on a foundation of shared ethical principles and a deep sense of loyalty to our country. In 2025, we will place a strong emphasis on promoting moral rectitude and reinforcing our faith in Nigeria. To this end, I will soon unveil the National Values Charter, which has already been approved by the Federal Executive Council. This Charter will be launched in the first quarter of 2025, along with an extensive national orientation campaign aimed at fostering patriotism and a renewed love for our country. This campaign will inspire all Nigerians to come together, transcend our differences, and unite behind a common purpose.

 

Our reforms, though far-reaching and vital to our progress, can only succeed if they are supported by shared values and a deep love for Nigeria. Therefore, we will emphasize national unity, mutual commitment, and trust between the government and citizens, ensuring that all Nigerians work together to create a prosperous future.

 

Youth Engagement and Investment

As part of our broader vision for a prosperous Nigeria, we are committed to empowering our youth and encouraging their active participation in nation-building. The Youth Conference will commence in the first quarter of 2025, signaling our dedication to investing in the future of our young people. This conference will be inclusive, representing the diverse views and aspirations of Nigeria’s youth. The Ministry of Youth will soon announce the process for selecting delegates who will represent our vibrant, youthful population at the conference.

 

A Call for Cooperation from State and Local Governments

As we move into 2025, I call on our governors and local council leaders to work closely with the federal government in seizing new opportunities in agriculture, livestock, and tax reforms. Together, we can propel Nigeria toward greater prosperity. I commend the governors who have already adopted initiatives such as the use of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) for public transportation and those who are transitioning to electric vehicles as part of our national energy shift. The federal government will continue to support states in these important initiatives.

 

**A Bright Future Awaits**

 

To all citizens, I want to assure you that your sacrifices over the past 19 months have not been in vain. As we face the challenges and opportunities of 2025, let us stay the course of nation-building, knowing that the bright future we all desire is within our reach. Together, we will move closer to realizing the Nigeria of our dreams.

 

May God bless you all and may God bless our beloved country, Nigeria.

 

Happy New Year, and may 2025 be a year of prosperity for us all!

 

Bola Ahmed Tinubu,

President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria

January 1, 2025