President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has called for action, saying the time of lamentation is over.
He made the assertion while the 2025 budget to the Joint Session of the 10th National Assembly, on Tuesday.
Tinubu urged Nigerians to be hopeful for a better Nigeria as a new day has dawned on the country.
“The time for lamentation is over. This is a time to act. A time to support and promote greater investment in the private sector.
“A time for our civil servants to faithfully execute our policies and programmes. It is a time for every Nigerian to look hopefully towards a brighter future because a new day has dawned for us as a nation.”
He stated that the implemented reforms have begun to yield results and as such, Nigeria is set to experience a functional economy.
Speaking on the country’s economic performance for 2024 which was projected at 3.2 percent as against predictions, recorded progress as it grew by 3.46% in the third quarter of 2024, up from 2.54 percent in the third quarter of 2023.
According to him, the foreign reserves now stand at nearly 42 billion US dollars, providing a robust buffer against external shocks.
“Our rising exports are reflected in the current trade surplus, which now stands at 5.8 trillion naira, according to the National Bureau of Statistics.”
He attributed the results to deliberate policy choices from his administration.
He noted that the new budget reflects a commitment to strengthening the foundation of a robust economy, while addressing critical sectors essential for the growth and development we envision.
“As we embark on implementing the 2025 Budget, our steps are deliberate, our decisions resolute, and our priorities are clear”.
On security matters, the President noted that funds have been increased for security forces to ensure proper protection of the nation.
He further pledged commitment to equipping them with the necessary tools.
“The government will continue to provide our security forces with the modern tools and technology they need to keep us safe.
“Boosting the morale of our men and women in the armed forces will remain our government’s top priority.
“The officers, men, and women of our Armed Forces and the Nigerian Police Force are the shields and protectors of our nation.
“Our administration will continue to empower them to defeat insurgency, banditry, and all threats to our sovereignty. Our people should never live in fear—whether on their farmlands, highways or cities.
“By restoring peace, we restore productivity, revive businesses, and rebuild our communities.”