A recent video of President Bola Tinubu addressing Nigerians about economic challenges has gone viral, sparking significant discussion and confusion online.
The video, which appeared to offer reassurances regarding the country’s economic future, was quickly shared across various social media platforms, leading many to believe it was a current statement from the President.
However, the presidency has clarified that the video is not a recent update but an old clip from July 2023.
The trending video features Tinubu discussing the economic impacts of subsidy removal and outlining his administration’s plans for improving the country’s future.
The clip was widely circulated after being posted on official channels including the President’s X page, the State House NG WhatsApp channel, and other related social media accounts.
This led to widespread speculation and debate about the President’s current stance and recent public statements.
Bayo Onanuga, the Special Adviser to President Tinubu on Information and Strategy, addressed the situation on his X account earlier today.
Onanuga stated, “The video of President Tinubu circulating today is from a broadcast made last year, specifically from July 2023.
“The President has not made any new public statements beyond his last broadcast on Sunday.”
His comments aimed to dispel any confusion surrounding the video’s authenticity and timeliness.
In the video, President Tinubu acknowledges the economic hardships Nigerians have been facing, particularly as a result of the subsidy removal.
He says, “Fellow Nigerians, this period may be hard on us and there is no doubt that it is tough on us. But I urge you all to look beyond the present temporary pains and aim at the larger picture.”
He reassures citizens that the government is working diligently to implement plans for a brighter future and highlights that there is a significant gap between the removal of subsidies and the full implementation of these plans.
The President further emphasises his commitment to improving the nation’s economic standing, stating, “All good and helpful plans are in the works. More importantly, I know they would work.
“Sadly, there was an unavoidable lag between subsidy removal and these plans coming fully online. However, we are swiftly closing the time gap.”
Tinubu also touches on educational reforms, promising to make education more affordable and accessible.
“For example, we shall fulfil our promise to make education affordable to all and provide loans to higher education students who may need them. No Nigerian student will have to abandon higher education because of lack of money,” he asserts.
The video also includes a call for patience and faith in the government’s efforts, with the President assuring that Nigeria will emerge stronger and better equipped to face future challenges. “Our commitment is to promote the greatest good for the greatest number of our people. On principle, we shall never falter,” he declares.
In response to the video’s viral spread and subsequent clarification, various reactions have emerged from citizens and political commentators. While some express frustration over the delay in policy implementation, others call for greater transparency and accountability from the government.