From Moshood Karim
In a nationwide broadcast on Sunday, Nigeria’s President Bola Tinubu firmly stated that there will be no return of the fuel subsidy, addressing one of the key demands of the ongoing #EndBadGovernance protests sweeping across the country.
The President emphasized that the decision to remove the fuel subsidy on May 29, 2023, was a painful yet essential step for the nation’s economic stability and growth.
“Removing the fuel subsidy was a necessary action to untangle the economic noose around the jugular of our nation and promote our economic development and progress,” President Tinubu declared.
He stressed that the subsidy had long been an impediment to Nigeria’s economic vitality, describing the country’s past economic strategies as short-sighted and unsustainable.
“My vision for our country is one of a just and prosperous nation where each person may enjoy the peace, freedom, and meaningful livelihood that only democratic good governance can provide,” Tinubu said. He emphasized the need for a government that is open, transparent, and accountable to its people.
Reflecting on the economic challenges faced by Nigeria, President Tinubu noted that the country had reached a critical juncture where temporary fixes were no longer viable. He outlined the rationale behind the subsidy removal, explaining that it curbed the profits of smugglers and rent-seekers, and halted the undue financial benefits previously extended to neighboring countries at the expense of Nigerian citizens.
“These decisions I made were necessary if we must reverse the decades of economic mismanagement that didn’t serve us well. Yes, I agree, the buck stops on my table. But I can assure you that I am fully focused on delivering good governance to the people,” he stated.
The President also detailed measures his administration has implemented to alleviate hunger and improve the welfare of Nigerians. He extended an olive branch to the #EndBadGovernance protesters, urging them to engage in dialogue with the government.
Addressing the youth, President Tinubu cautioned against being manipulated by a few greedy elites aiming to derail Nigeria’s democratic process. He expressed his condolences to the families who lost loved ones during the protests and reaffirmed his commitment to addressing the nation’s pressing issues.
As the nation grapples with the economic and social challenges at hand, President Tinubu’s message underscores a pivotal moment in Nigeria’s journey towards economic reform and good governance.
President Bola Tinubu(GCFR) addresses the nation on its current state and ongoing protests, calls for unity, dialogue, and outlines concrete steps towards progress.
"My dear Nigerians, especially our youth, I have heard you loud and clear. I understand the pain and frustration… pic.twitter.com/XRYOpRf71B
— Daddy D.O🇳🇬 (@DOlusegun) August 4, 2024
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