President Bola Tinubu appealed for patience from Nigerians regarding the ongoing economic challenges in the country, assuring them that there is a positive outlook. Acknowledging his responsibility for the difficulties arising from government policies, he welcomed criticisms during his visit to Akure, the Ondo State capital. Tinubu also paid condolences to the family of the late former Ondo State Governor, Rotimi Akeredolu, who passed away in December.
Tinubu’s economic reforms, including the removal of fuel subsidies, faced public backlash, leading to a nationwide protest by the Nigeria Labour Congress. However, addressing concerns, the President stated that Nigeria would overcome the challenges, emphasizing his commitment to fiscal and true federalism. He assured citizens that their patience and perseverance would not be in vain.
A statement by the Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, Ajuri Ngelale, titled “President Tinubu: I take full responsibility for the nation; we are building an efficient Nigeria that is inclusive and fair to all Nigerians,” highlighted Tinubu’s determination to navigate the economic twists and turns for Nigeria’s prosperity.
During his visit to Afenifere, Tinubu received support for his administration’s efforts from Pa Olu Falae, who commended his commitment to progress. Falae urged the President to focus on institutional reforms, balancing the budget, executing capital projects for employment, and involving states in security, food production, and infrastructure development.
Tinubu, in turn, assured the public that Nigeria’s economy would not be exploited, pledging to re-engineer finances and curb selfish interests permanently. The President also paid homage to the late Governor Akeredolu during his visit to Owo, commending his contributions and expressing condolences to the family.
In response, Akeredolu’s widow thanked Tinubu for his visit, recognizing him as a good friend and brother to her late husband. She expressed gratitude to South-West governors and especially Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu for their financial contributions to the burial and the repatriation of Akeredolu’s remains. Tinubu reassured the family, saying Akeredolu’s legacies would endure, expressing hope that they would continue to grow where necessary.
