On Wednesday, President Bola Tinubu reached out to the citizens of Nigeria, requesting their endurance amidst the prevailing economic strain, while reassuring them of a hopeful future ahead.
Acknowledging the challenges imposed by recent government decisions, President Tinubu admitted his full awareness and acceptance of responsibility for the hardships faced by the Nigerian populace.
Choosing not to lament, he embraced all forms of critique, reminding everyone of his voluntary pursuit of the presidency.
His remarks were made in Akure, the capital of Ondo State, during his visit to the esteemed leader of the pan-Yoruba socio-political group, Afenifere, Pa Reuben Fasoranti.
In addition, the President made a visit to express his condolences to the family of the late ex-Governor of Ondo State, Rotimi Akeredolu, who died in December after a lengthy fight against cancer.
The removal of fuel subsidies among other economic measures taken by Tinubu’s administration has led to widespread criticism due to the resulting increase in living costs, food inflation, and other negative impacts.
This prompted the Nigeria Labour Congress to stage a nationwide strike on Tuesday, with threats of escalated actions if the economic situation does not improve within two weeks.
In response to concerns about his economic strategies, President Tinubu stated, “Nigeria will survive the current economic challenges. There is light at the end of the tunnel. I requested the job, and I am not complaining about it. I take full responsibility.”
This statement was part of a release from Ajuri Ngelale, the President’s Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, 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.’
President Tinubu reaffirmed his commitment to guiding Nigeria towards a future of economic and social wellbeing, emphasizing the country’s adherence to its international obligations and its determination to avoid defaulting on loans.
He pledged to pursue fiscal responsibility, true federalism, and equitable governance under the principle that what benefits one should benefit all.
Tinubu thanked Nigerians for their patience and support during these tough times, promising that their endurance would be rewarded.
Highlighting Lagos’ rise to become Africa’s fifth largest economy through perseverance, he called for wisdom in managing Nigeria’s growth responsibly.
Having campaigned on serving the nation’s interest and withstanding legal challenges, he emphasized the need to protect Nigeria’s economy from exploitation and to implement financial and institutional reforms to curb self-serving interests.
Pa Olu Falae, representing Afenifere and reading Pa Fasoranti’s address, lauded Tinubu for his dedication to Nigeria’s advancement and supported his government’s reform efforts, noting, “You have kept your word to return to this place where we all prayed for you, and this shows that you are a man of your word.”
Fasoranti encouraged the President to adopt a fair and bold approach, reflecting Afenifere’s values of integrity, competence, fairness, and courage, and to pursue reforms that would bolster the federation, enhance security, and foster prosperity.
He also urged the President to ensure state governments reflect the financial benefits of fuel subsidy removal in grassroots improvements, emphasizing the need for job creation, educational advancement, and infrastructure development.
Accompanied by several Afenifere leaders and local dignitaries, President Tinubu visited the late Akeredolu’s family and the Olowo of Owo Kingdom, offering tributes and prayers for the community’s wellbeing.
Expressing his condolences, Tinubu assured the Akeredolu family of God’s support and the late governor’s wife thanked him and the South-West governors for their support, especially Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu for his pivotal role in the return of Akeredolu’s remains to Nigeria.
