By Saheed Ibrahim

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has pledged to tackle Nigeria’s high inflation rate, setting an ambitious target to reduce it from 34.6% to 15% by the end of 2025.

This promise formed a key part of his New Year message to Nigerians, where he outlined plans to alleviate the economic burdens on citizens.

Tinubu acknowledged the significant challenges posed by soaring prices of food and essential drugs in 2024, vowing that his administration would intensify efforts to boost food production and promote local manufacturing of medical supplies.

The president also pointed to several positive economic indicators, including a strengthened Naira, three consecutive quarters of foreign trade surpluses, and a record performance in the stock market, which created trillions of naira in wealth.

To support economic growth and inclusivity, Tinubu announced the upcoming launch of the National Credit Guarantee Company.

The initiative, set to commence operations before the second quarter of 2025, will expand credit access to individuals and underserved groups such as women and youth.

It is a partnership involving government institutions, private entities, and multilateral organisations that would foster confidence in the financial system and stimulate job creation across key sectors.

Beyond economic reforms, the president called for unity and patriotism among Nigerians, announcing plans to unveil a National Values Charter in the first quarter of 2025.

The charter, already approved by the Federal Executive Council, will promote shared values, trust, and cooperation between the government and citizens.

Tinubu also reiterated his administration’s commitment to youth inclusiveness, revealing that a Youth Confab will take place early in 2025. The event will engage young Nigerians as active participants in national development and decision-making processes.

The president urged governors and local council leaders to work closely with the federal government to seize emerging opportunities in agriculture, energy transition, and tax reforms.

He commended states that have embraced Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) and electric vehicles in public transport systems.

As the nation enters 2025, Tinubu expressed optimism about a brighter future, calling for resilience and collective efforts to build a prosperous Nigeria.

“Your sacrifices have not been in vain over the past 19 months. I assure you they will not be in vain even in the months ahead. Together, let us stay the course of nation-building,” he concluded.