President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has declared that he is fully prepared to weather criticism as he undertakes the herculean task of rebuilding Nigeria. The president made this assertion on Saturday in Enugu, during a meeting with key stakeholders from the southeast geopolitical zone.
Tinubu’s visit to the Coal City State was marked by the commissioning of landmark projects spearheaded by Governor Peter Mbah. Among these were 30 smart green schools, 60 newly completed Type-2 primary health centers, and the 19-kilometre Airport-New Haven–Bisalla and Okpara Square roads.
In his address, Tinubu acknowledged the weight of leadership and the difficult decisions that come with governing a diverse and complex nation like Nigeria. He defended his administration’s controversial removal of the petrol subsidy, describing it as a necessary step to secure the country’s future.
“A Family Called Nigeria”
“You are all members of one big, huge family called Nigeria but living in different rooms in the same house,” Tinubu told the audience.
He emphasized that building a prosperous Nigeria requires sacrifices, even if such measures provoke opposition. “This house, we must build it,” he said. “Build it to satisfy our immediate need, which is not going to be enough yet but for tomorrow too.”
The president justified his administration’s removal of the petrol subsidy, a policy that has been widely criticized for causing financial hardship for ordinary Nigerians. Tinubu explained that the decision was aimed at preventing future generations from bearing the burden of unsustainable subsidies.
“You cannot spend the future of generations yet unborn in advance. Don’t bankrupt the nation before they are born,” he stated firmly.
Acknowledging the Challenges
The president admitted that his policies might attract criticism but remained resolute in his belief that the sacrifices are necessary for long-term national growth. “I know people will fight, grumble, and abuse me, and everything,” he said. “But I asked for the job. I know what it takes.”
Tinubu expressed confidence in his ability to gather a competent team to drive his vision for Nigeria. “I believe in myself, and I believe I can gather a very good team and build a nation,” he remarked.
Changing the Narrative
The president also called on Nigerians to shun negativity about their country and embrace a sense of national pride. “It is our country. We have to work really hard for it to build a nation that we can be proud of,” Tinubu said. “Change the narrative—negative comment about Nigeria. I’m not taking that. I’m very proud of Nigeria. You all should be proud of Nigeria.”
Contextualizing Tinubu’s Policies
Since assuming office in May 2023, Tinubu has faced intense scrutiny over his economic reforms, particularly the removal of the fuel subsidy and the unification of Nigeria’s exchange rates. While these policies aim to stabilize the economy and attract foreign investment, they have also led to increased inflation and economic hardship for many Nigerians.
Experts have described the subsidy removal as a “double-edged sword.” On one hand, it saves the government billions of naira that were previously spent subsidizing fuel. On the other hand, it has led to a sharp rise in the cost of living, sparking protests and criticism from labor unions and opposition parties.
Despite these challenges, Tinubu has remained steadfast, framing his reforms as painful but necessary for Nigeria’s economic recovery.
Southeast Projects: A Symbol of Unity
The president’s visit to Enugu was not just about policies but also a demonstration of his administration’s commitment to fostering unity and development across all regions of the country. Governor Peter Mbah lauded Tinubu for supporting infrastructure development in the southeast, describing the commissioned projects as “a symbol of progress and a testament to the possibilities of governance.”
The green schools and health centers aim to improve education and healthcare access in the region, while the reconstructed roads are expected to ease transportation and boost economic activities.
A Divisive Legacy?
Tinubu’s presidency has sparked mixed reactions among Nigerians. While his supporters praise him for taking bold steps to address long-standing economic challenges, critics argue that his policies disproportionately affect the poor and vulnerable.
His speech in Enugu reflects his awareness of the criticisms he faces, but also his determination to leave a lasting legacy. “This nation must be built for future generations,” Tinubu said. “We cannot afford to fail.”
A Call for Collective Responsibility
As the president continues to navigate the complexities of governance, his message to Nigerians remains clear: the task of rebuilding the country requires collective effort and shared sacrifices.
“This is our country,” he reiterated. “We must work together to make it one that future generations can be proud of.”
