WINDOW ROCK, Ariz. — Navajo Nation President Buu Nygren submitted his written State of the Nation address to the 25th Navajo Nation Council during its fall session, outlining the administration’s progress on housing, water infrastructure, public safety, health care, transportation, education and economic development.
President Nygren was unable to attend the session but provided a written report detailing accomplishments from the past quarter and identifying projects and funding priorities that require continued attention as his administration and the 25th Navajo Nation Council approach the end of their terms.
The address highlighted more than 2,000 Navajo families connected to electricity during the administration, more than 4,500 approved homesite leases since 2023 and more than $400 million approved for roads and transportation projects across the Navajo Nation.
The administration also reported progress on veteran housing, community water systems and emergency response infrastructure. The new $170 million Echo Cliffs Health Center expands access to outpatient services in Western Navajo communities, while the $20.25 million Shiprock first responders building brings police, fire, emergency medical services and emergency management operations together in one facility.
Broadband development remains another priority. A four-year, $244.6 million broadband plan provides for 45 new tower sites, upgrades to existing towers and more than 700 miles of fiber, with a goal of reaching 88% of the Navajo Nation with 5G service by 2028.
The report also addressed recent flooding and the coordinated response by chapters, the Navajo Department of Transportation, Navajo Tribal Utility Authority, emergency management personnel, health providers, housing programs and volunteers. The administration reported that $6 million in chapter emergency preparedness and response funding supports local response efforts.
In the address, Nygren acknowledged that progress must be measured by whether projects deliver services families can use, including homes connected to utilities, dependable water systems, safe roads and accessible health care.
“Our responsibility is to keep following through and keep showing up,” Nygren stated in the written address, emphasizing the need to complete unfinished projects, support employees serving Navajo communities and ensure funding translates into services.
Nygren also called on the Navajo Nation Council and Executive Branch to continue working together on outstanding priorities, including unresolved Executive Branch funding needs under the fiscal year 2027 budget. He encouraged eligible Navajo voters to participate in the upcoming elections and urged young people, including first-time voters, to take part in decisions affecting their communities and future.
The full State of the Nation address recognizes the work of Navajo chapters, Council members, employees, contractors, and community members who have helped advance projects throughout the Nation while outlining remaining projects in housing, infrastructure, public safety, healthcare and government services.
