In a bold address, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has firmly responded to the recent protests led by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), emphasizing that his administration’s reforms are here to stay. The NLC’s protests, which swept across the nation this Tuesday, were ignited by public discontent over the removal of fuel subsidies, leading to heightened economic hardships for many Nigerians.
During the unveiling of the Lagos Red Line Train project, which promises to enhance connectivity from Agbado to Oyingbo, President Tinubu conveyed his message to the labour movement, underscoring the diversity of voices within the Nigerian populace. “While the union has its rights and freedom, it’s not the only voice of the Nigerian people,” he stated, urging the NLC to embrace patience and peace, rather than resorting to strikes within the nascent phase of his governance.
The President’s critique comes in the wake of NLC President Joe Ajareo’s declaration that the protests were a cry against the surging hunger levels in the country and a call to action for the government to establish a new minimum wage framework. Tinubu’s stance was clear: “If you want to participate in the electoral process, wait until 2027. If not, maintain peace; you are not the only voice of Nigerians.”
Reflecting on his administration’s pivotal decision to eliminate fuel subsidies, a move announced in his inaugural speech and one that has since led to an uptick in transportation costs among other economic strains, President Tinubu reassured the public of his unwavering commitment to national progress. “These reforms that are ongoing, we are not looking back because it is all about the people,” he affirmed.
The President’s vision extends beyond immediate economic adjustments, targeting a broader battle against corruption and smuggling. With a resolve to secure a prosperous future for Nigeria, he voiced his determination to confront these challenges head-on. “Corruption will go away. We will save the money for you; to educate our children; to pay for the healthcare system of our people; to pay for a modern transportation system,” Tinubu promised, signaling a relentless fight against corruption to foster national development.
The commissioning of the red line, a project close to Tinubu’s heart and one he envisioned 25 years ago during his tenure as Lagos State Governor, marks a significant milestone towards improving urban mobility and infrastructure in Nigeria’s bustling metropolis. It also serves as a call to action for enhanced cooperation between the Ministry of Transport and states across the nation to further develop the country’s railway infrastructure.
As President Tinubu’s administration nears its one-year mark, the clear message to Nigerians is one of resilience and progress, with a pledge to navigate the nation out of economic challenges and towards a brighter, more self-sufficient future.
