President Bola Tinubu emphasized that Nigeria’s development depends on its citizens’ unity rather than foreign aid.

Addressing a joint session of the National Assembly in Abuja yesterday, Tinubu asserted that no external institution or individual could foster the country’s growth without collective national effort.

Reflecting on his political journey, Tinubu credited the National Assembly for his path to the presidency. “You sang out the latest national anthem, ‘Nigeria we hail thee’. This symbolizes our diversity and our pledge to unity,” he stated. “Without this house, I probably would not have found a path to the presidency. I started it all from here. That is why I respect you this morning and will continue to collaborate with you to build our country together.”

He underscored the necessity of self-reliance, saying, “No other institution or personality will help us, except we do it ourselves. No amount of aid from foreign countries can help us. Let us work together to build our nation, charting a new path.”

Tinubu thanked lawmakers for their contributions to strengthening the institution, celebrating 25 years of uninterrupted democracy. “You are the foremost leaders who speak for our people and have been at the forefront of this struggle,” he said, urging the nurturing of democracy for future generations to ensure prosperity, progress, and development.