President Bola Ahmed Tinubu of Nigeria has defended his administration’s decision to remove the fuel subsidy, calling it a “necessary” step to secure Nigeria’s economic future. Speaking during a working visit to Enugu State on Saturday, Tinubu emphasized that the bold move was essential to prevent the country from bankrupting future generations.
Tinubu ended the subsidy regime during his inauguration in May 2023, leading to a sharp increase in fuel prices and widespread protests. Critics argue that the removal has exacerbated economic hardships for many Nigerians. However, Tinubu maintained that the decision was unavoidable.
“You cannot spend the future of generations yet unborn in advance. Don’t bankrupt the nation before they are born,” the president said during a stakeholders’ meeting at the Government House in Enugu.
He acknowledged the challenges Nigerians face but expressed confidence in his ability to lead the country through tough reforms. “I know people will fight, grumble, and abuse me, but I asked for the job. I believe in myself and I believe I can gather a very good team and build a nation.”
President Tinubu urged Nigerians to demonstrate love for the country and resist making negative remarks about it.
“It is our country. We have to work really hard for it; to build a nation that we can be proud of. 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,” Tinubu declared.
During his visit, Tinubu commissioned several projects executed by the Enugu State government, including: The multi-auditorium and multi-functional Enugu International Conference Centre, A state-of-the-art command and control center with 150 patrol vehicles equipped with AI-embedded surveillance cameras.
The president was received by Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State, alongside other dignitaries and government officials.
