Tinubu’s Independence Speech Rich In Platitudes, Lacks Substance – NDC

The Nigerian Democratic Congress(NDC), has said President Bola Tinubu’s Independence speech was rich in platitudes but lacking in substance.

National Publicity Secretary of NDC, Osa Director said this in an interview with LEADERSHIP in Abuja on the heels of Nigeria’s 66th Independence anniversary.

Tinubu had in his Independence speech said Nigeria has moved from a period of economic reforms to an “age of prosperity.”

“Three and a half years later, the evidence that Nigeria’s economic outlook has improved is undeniable. Our economy has grown by over 4 per cent this year. Both oil and non-oil sectors have contributed to the renewed period of stable growth.

“Oil theft is down. Inflation has fallen substantially from its peak. Our foreign reserves have been rebuilt, our foreign exchange market has stabilised, and in 2025 this country recorded its highest revenue from non-oil exports in its history, exceeding $6 billion. This is real money being made by real Nigerian businesses.

“These are not idle claims. International observers, journalists, NGOs and multilateral institutions can see the change. Each has concluded that our reforms have strengthened Nigeria’s economic stability and resilience. The private sector has long since delivered its verdict, and foreign direct investment continues to rise each year,” the president said.

However, the NDC spokesperson said Nigerians do not need to be told if and when the “so-called” reforms are working but they will be felt and seen in the living condition of the people.

“The president’s speech is very rich in platitudes but lacking in substance. We don’t need to be told if and when the so-called reforms are working. We will feel it and see it in the living condition of the people.

“Compare the president’s speech to that of the presidential candidate of the NDC, Peter Obi, and then you will know the difference,” Director added.