‘We Will Defeat Poverty’, Tinubu Vows, As Nigerians Struggle With Rising Costs

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has vowed to defeat poverty in Nigeria, acknowledging that millions of Nigerians are struggling to meet basic needs despite his administration's efforts. Speaking on the nation's 66th Independence Anniversary, Tinubu highlighted the struggles of ordinary Nigerians, saying, "Some Nigerian families still struggle today for the next meal, the next school fee, the next medical bill, or simply enough money to get to work."

The President explained that the challenges faced by Nigerians were not caused by recent reforms but are the result of decades of low productivity, inadequate infrastructure, insufficient opportunity, and institutions that often failed those who needed them most. He acknowledged that reversing these problems in just four years would be difficult, but stated that his administration could change the current trajectory.

Tinubu emphasized that his administration is strengthening social interventions to support the poorest and most vulnerable Nigerians. This includes direct support for the poorest households, improvements to the National Social Register, and the Nigerian Education Loan Fund, which ensures that children from low-income families can pursue higher education without financial barriers.

Additionally, CREDICORP is providing access to consumer credit for working Nigerians, enabling them to acquire essential assets like vehicles, solar systems, and digital devices.

The President also pledged to continue working with state and local governments to strengthen essential public services such as primary healthcare, basic education, and other services that poorer Nigerians rely on. Tinubu described these measures as transitional, stating that they are not the ultimate goal but rather a bridge to help Nigeria's citizens achieve prosperity over time.

He emphasized that defeating poverty will take time, discipline, and sustained growth, as well as the creation of millions of productive opportunities across the country. Tinubu noted that the objective is not merely to manage poverty more efficiently but to "defeat it."