Akure, Feb. 29, 2024 -President Bola Tinubu says he will take full responsibility for the difficulties Nigerians are being subjected to on account of current government policies.
He said he would not complain, but welcome all criticisms since he asked to be Nigeria’s president.
A statement by Ajuri Ngelale, the Presidential Spokesman, said Tinubu said these in Akure, the Ondo State capital, on Wednesday during his visit to the leader of the pan-Yoruba sociopolitical organisation, Afenifere, Pa Reuben Fasoranti, in Akure.
He also paid a condolence visit to the family of the late former Ondo State Governor, Rotimi Akeredolu, who passed away in December following a protracted battle with cancer.
“Nigeria will survive the current economic challenges. There is a light at the end of the tunnel. I requested the job, and I am not complaining about it. I take full responsibility.”
“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.”
Tinubu said his task would be to ensure fiscal and true federalism, as well as the broad-based manifestation of the philosophy that “what is sauce for the goose is sauce for the gander.”
He acknowledged the understanding and support of all Nigerians in the face of the harsh but temporary economic conditions, assuring them that their patience and perseverance would not be fruitless.
“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,” Tinubu said.
Speaking on behalf of Afenifere, Pa Olu Falae, a former Secretary to the Government of the Federation who read the address of Pa Fasoranti, commended Tinubu for his commitment to Nigeria’s progress and expressed support for his administration’s efforts.
“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,” the elder statesman stated.
“Today, you are carrying our flag. We are noted for integrity, competence, fairness, and courage. Your performance so far has shown that you understand the full gravity of your mandate, which is to show the Nigerian people that a good government is possible,” he said.
“Mr. President, please also seek institutional reforms that would strengthen our federation and make Nigeria safer and more prosperous. Try to balance the budget and execute capital projects that would create more employment. We thank you for welcoming the idea of state policing.’’
“We want each of the geopolitical zones to have greater responsibilities for security, food production, and infrastructural development.
“Since the removal of the fuel subsidy, which was costing Nigeria $10 billion a year, the state governments have been receiving hefty allocations from the Federation account.
“Mr. President should persuade the governors to allow this change of fortune for the states to reflect at the grassroots so that life can be better for our people.
“They should not just buy rice and yams for the people. They should create employment, improve education, and build new infrastructure. Today, life is truly challenging for most people, and state governments have an important role to play in transforming society.” (GBN)
