By Ayomide Otitoju
Amid economic challenges facing the nation, President Bola Tinubu has reassured Nigerians of hope, reaffirming his commitment to a responsive and inclusive government.
Speaking on Friday while receiving the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) at the Presidential Villa, Tinubu acknowledged the difficulties stemming from his administration’s decision to remove fuel subsidies but maintained that the policy was necessary for Nigeria’s economic stability.
“Yes, removing the fuel subsidy was hard, tough for me, but it’s a hard choice that Nigeria must face. We are not going to bankrupt our country,” Tinubu stated, according to a statement released by his spokesman, Bayo Onanuga.
The President highlighted improvements in key sectors, noting increased competition in the petroleum industry, a bountiful harvest for farmers, and declining commodity prices. He added that foreign investments were flowing into the country, signaling economic progress.
“There is hope; people are coming in to invest. They are saying good things about Nigeria. I am very proud of that. What seemed to be a very difficult beginning is now showing us hope. And we are not even at half-time yet,” he said.
Addressing the nation’s security concerns, Tinubu acknowledged the impact of insecurity on all citizens, regardless of religious affiliation, and assured that security agencies were making strides in tackling the menace.
“This insecurity affects everyone—Christians and Muslims alike. I have no religious bias; I won’t be a bigot. My wife is a pastor of the Redeemed Christian Church. But we must think about our country. This nation must develop and stand beyond religious bigotry,” he asserted.
The President expressed gratitude to religious leaders for their prayers and support, noting that the country was already witnessing signs of economic improvement and renewed optimism.
