President Bola Tinubu has again asked Nigerians to be patient during the current economic challenges in the country, assuring them that things will get better.
He acknowledged the hardships caused by government policies and took full responsibility. Tinubu welcomed criticism, stating that he chose to be Nigeria’s President and would not complain.
He made these remarks during a visit to the leader of the pan-Yoruba sociopolitical organization, Afenifere, Pa Reuben Fasoranti, in Akure, the capital of Ondo State.
He also visited the family of the late former Ondo State Governor, Rotimi Akeredolu, who died in December after battling cancer for a long time.
Public criticism has been directed towards Tinubu for removing fuel subsidies and implementing other economic reforms, which have led to high living costs, food inflation, and other negative consequences.
As a result, the Nigeria Labour Congress organized a nationwide protest on Tuesday and threatened more mass actions if the government did not address the economic difficulties within two weeks.
In response to concerns about his economic policies, the President reassured the public by saying, “Nigeria will overcome the current economic challenges. There is hope for the future. I asked for this job, and I am not complaining. I take full responsibility.”
This statement was released by the Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, Ajuri Ngelale, under the title, ‘President Tinubu: I take full responsibility for the nation; we are building an efficient Nigeria that is inclusive and fair to all Nigerians.’
Tinubu expressed his dedication to guiding Nigeria towards economic and social success, stating, “We are meeting our obligations to the international community. To lenders, we have not defaulted, and we are not going to default. We are navigating the twists and bends on the road to Nigeria’s prosperity.”
The President stated that his goal in reforming Nigeria is to establish fiscal and true federalism, along with ensuring equal treatment for all.
He also recognized the understanding and support of all Nigerians during tough economic times, promising that their patience and perseverance would pay off in the end.
“But, through perseverance, Lagos emerged as the fifth largest economy in the entire continent of Africa. We must manage this moment with wisdom and grow Nigeria responsibly.
“I campaigned for this office to serve Nigeria’s interests, and I was elected. Some said I would not last in the tribunal and came up with all sorts of predictions, but even when in court, I remained focused.
“We cannot allow Nigeria’s economy to be exploited. We cannot abandon our economy to marauders. I am determined to re-engineer our finances and curb selfish interests permanently,” he stated.
