Nigeria’s President Bola Tinubu has called on his fellow citizens to maintain a positive outlook on their country, despite the economic and security difficulties they face.
Tinubu made the remarks on Thursday at the launch of the Renewed Hope Cities initiative, a housing project that aims to provide affordable and quality homes for Nigerians across the country.
The president said that optimism and hope are essential for achieving national greatness and prosperity.
“It is our country. You pledge to Nigeria, your country, my country to be faithful loyal, and honest. To serve Nigeria with all your strength,” he said.
He added: “Nigerians, don’t look back, look forward. Be hopeful. Be assured that you have a country that cares about you and you must care about the country.”
A Difficult Year
Tinubu’s appeal comes after a difficult year for Nigeria, Africa’s most populous and largest economy. The country faced a recession, high inflation, rising unemployment, and a weakening currency, as well as security challenges such as kidnapping, banditry, and insurgency.
The president acknowledged the frustrations and hardships of many Nigerians, especially those who work hard to provide for themselves and their families.
He said he was aware of the debates and conversations about the rising cost of living, which prompted protests in some states earlier this week. He also said he understood the impact of some of the tough decisions he had taken since he assumed office in May 2023, such as the removal of fuel subsidies and the reform of the foreign exchange system.
The president said these decisions were necessary to save the country from fiscal catastrophe and to create a more sustainable and inclusive economy.
A New Vision
Tinubu said his administration was committed to delivering on its Renewed Hope mandate, which focuses on improving the economy, security, infrastructure, and social welfare of Nigerians.
He said the housing project he launched was part of his vision to make Nigeria a home for all, where everyone can live in dignity and comfort. Tinubu praised the Ministry of Housing and Urban Development for partnering with the private sector to execute the project, which will provide 3,112 housing units in the Federal Capital Territory.
He said the project will also create jobs and income opportunities for many Nigerians, especially those in the construction sector. He said his government will continue to invest in other sectors such as agriculture, industry, health, and education, to create more value and opportunities for Nigerians. Tinubu also said he will work with other stakeholders to address the security challenges and restore peace and stability in the country.
A Call for Unity
Tinubu urged Nigerians to unite and support his government in its efforts to transform the country. He said Nigeria is a great nation with a rich history and culture, and a bright future. He said Nigerians should be proud of their country and speak positively about it, rather than focus on the negative aspects. He said Nigerians should also respect and celebrate their diversity, rather than allow it to divide them.Â
President Tinubu said he believes in the potential and resilience of Nigerians, and he is confident that they will overcome their challenges and achieve their dreams.
He said: “We love to win. When you are positive and you are hopeful, Nigeria is winning. We didn’t say it would be smooth all the way through. But we are confident that this country will excel in all ramifications. We will defend our unity and uphold our honor and glory in every way possible. Because we are Nigerians and we have no other country.”
Source: Punch
