AMID the hardship rocking the country, President Bola Tinubu has assured Nigerians of hope, reiterating his commitment to running a government that listens to the needs of Nigerians.
Tinubu gave the assurance on Friday while receiving the Catholic Bishop’s Conference of Nigeria (CBCN).
He told the bishops that he made a tough decision upon assuming office in 2023 by removing subsidy on petroleum products.
He stressed the competition among operators in the petroleum sector, the bountiful harvest enjoyed by farmers, and the lower prices of commodities, adding that investments are flowing into the country.
“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,” the President was quoted in a statement by his spokesman, Bayo Onanuga.
“There is hope; people are coming in to invest. They are saying good things about Nigeria. I am very proud of that. What seems to be a very difficult beginning is now showing us hope. And we are not half-time yet. I’m happy to see this period alive and healthy, and I am thankful to all of you for your prayers.”
The President also decried the situation in the country, lamenting that it affects everyone including Christians and Muslims.
He stated that the security agencies were already curtailing the nation’s insecurity, stressing that adherents of all religions felt the impact of the efforts.
“This insecurity, everyone is affected, Christians, Muslims alike. I have no religious bias; I won’t be a bigot. My wife is a pastor of Redeemed Christian Church.
“But we have to think of our country; this country must develop and must stand beyond religious bigotry. And I’m here open to you, ready to listen. We’ve been together for some time. We have an open-door policy. I will not shut my door,” he stated.
Tinubu thanked religious leaders for their prayers, as the country is already witnessing a better deal and a newfound optimism. He highlighted the competition among operators in the petroleum sector, the bountiful harvest enjoyed by farmers, and the lower prices of commodities, adding that investments are flowing into the country.
