President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has called on Nigerians to remain patient as the government works on developing palliative measures to alleviate the challenges caused by the removal of petrol subsidy.
While addressing the Class of 1999 governors, a group of 18 governors who served alongside him, at the Presidential Villa, Tinubu assured the nation that the decision to remove the subsidy was made in the best interest of the country, aiming to secure future prosperity.
He appealed for the people’s patience, promising that the process would be expedited. Additionally, he emphasized the government’s commitment to establishing a foolproof social security system that would not compromise cash transfers.
Acknowledging the difficulties faced by the Nigerian populace, Tinubu likened the pain experienced to the labor pains of childbirth, expressing optimism that the nation would experience joy and prosperity in the end.
“The rebirth of Nigeria has already begun with the removal of the fuel subsidy. It is a collective rebirth for the majority, as opposed to the few smugglers,” he stated.
Reinforcing his message, Tinubu emphasized the need for caution in cash transfers, as he did not want the funds to fall into the wrong hands. He acknowledged the pinch and challenges faced by the people, assuring them that the country would ultimately rejoice in its prosperity.
Adjoining the former governors, Tinubu discussed his original aspiration for democracy and the salvation of the nation, expressing his gratitude for being appointed as president. He assured them of his unwavering commitment to unity, equity, stability, and prosperity for Nigeria.
Tinubu recognized that the progress of the nation hinged on resolving the electricity crisis. He committed his administration to leverage gas resources and explore all opportunities to ensure consistent power generation and supply.
On matters of security, Tinubu, who had recently met with Governor Babagana Zulum of Borno State, urged Nigerians, particularly those in Plateau State, to embrace dialogue as a means of resolving conflicts. He reminded them that border issues were created by man and not by God.
“We will do everything in our power to stabilize the country,” he added.
The former governors expressed their support for Tinubu’s vision of a greater Nigeria, pledging their loyalty and experience to aid in the implementation of development policies.
“We stand by your side. Consider us your foot soldiers, ready to support you. You are a leader who believes in Nigeria, and with your exceptional leadership, Nigeria will rise,” said Lucky Igbinedion.
Out of the 19 former governors present at the meeting, including Tinubu and George Akume, a former governor of Benue State now serving as the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), ten had unfortunately passed away.
The meeting was also attended by Niyi Adebayo (Ekiti), Sen. Orji Uzo Kalu (Abia), Sen. Sam Egwu (Ebonyi), Adamu Muazu (Bauchi), Donald Duke (Cross River), James Ibori (Delta), Victor Attah (Akwa Ibom), Chimaroke Nnamani (Enugu), Saminu Turaki (Jigawa), Sen. Adamu Aliero, Olusegun Osoba (Ogun), Adebisi Akande (Osun), Sen. Joshua Dariye (Plateau), Attahiru Bafarawa (Sokoto), Ahmad Sani Yarima (Zamfara), and Rev. Jolly Nyame (Taraba)