President Bola Tinubu has urged Nigerians to remain hopeful, saying the country is gradually moving towards better days as it prepares to mark its 66th Independence Day.
Tinubu made the statement ahead of Nigeria’s Independence Day anniversary on October 1, 2026, during a Jumat prayer held at the National Mosque in Abuja on Friday.
The President was represented at the event by the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas.
Tinubu acknowledged that Nigeria had yet to reach its desired level of development but said the country remained on a path towards greater progress.
He called on Nigerians to support the reforms being implemented by his administration, saying the government was working to address past mistakes and missed opportunities.
“My message to the country on behalf of Mr President is that people should not lose hope. Peace is coming back to this country. Development is coming back to this country. Things will get better as we progress in this democracy,” Abbas said, conveying Tinubu’s message.
The President also reflected on Nigeria’s 66-year journey since independence, describing the anniversary as a significant milestone for the country.
He said Nigerians should pay attention to the government’s current direction and efforts to correct problems inherited from the past.
Tinubu further said Nigeria was on the right path, while urging citizens to remain patient as the country continues through its democratic process.
Abbas also appealed to Nigerians to give the President another opportunity to complete the work his administration had started.
The Jumat prayer was attended by several dignitaries, including Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin, Niger State Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago, Kogi State Governor Usman Ododo and Etsu Nupe, Yahaya Abubakar.
Nigeria will officially celebrate its 66th Independence Day on Thursday, October 1, 2026.
