President Bola Tinubu has defended the economic reforms introduced by his administration, stating that the measures prevented Nigeria from sliding into economic collapse and are now delivering positive results across key sectors of the economy.
Speaking during a Sallah homage paid to him at his Lagos residence by Vice-President Kashim Shettima and members of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) led by its Chairman and Kwara State Governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, the President expressed appreciation for the support of state governors throughout the implementation of the reforms.
Tinubu acknowledged that the administration's policy decisions, including the removal of fuel subsidy, were difficult but necessary to stabilise the nation's economy and avert bankruptcy.
According to him, despite legal challenges, public criticism and economic hardships experienced during the transition period, the government remained committed to restoring economic stability.
The President said the reforms have begun yielding tangible benefits, citing improvements in agriculture, infrastructure development, housing and other critical sectors.
He noted that ongoing road and infrastructure projects across the country, including the Sokoto-Badagry Super Highway corridor, would enhance economic growth, improve agricultural productivity and boost electricity generation through irrigation and dam projects.
Tinubu also urged governors to maximise the agricultural potential of their states by making productive use of available land to achieve food sovereignty and strengthen the nation's economy.
He added that many states are now better positioned financially and no longer depend heavily on federal support to meet salary obligations, attributing the development to improved economic management.
The President commended the governors for encouraging Nigerians to remain patient during what he described as a period of painful but necessary reforms aimed at resetting the economy.
Earlier, Vice-President Kashim Shettima said the Eid-el-Kabir celebration symbolises sacrifice, patience and courage, noting that President Tinubu had demonstrated those qualities through his reform agenda.
According to Shettima, leadership requires difficult decisions and personal sacrifice in the interest of national development, adding that governors across the country have witnessed the positive impact of the administration's reforms through improved fiscal stability and increased allocations.
Also speaking, Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum and Governor of Kwara State, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, praised the President's efforts toward building a peaceful and prosperous nation and pledged the continued support of governors for the administration's programmes.
The visit was attended by several governors, including Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos, Dapo Abiodun of Ogun, Mohammed Bago of Niger, Agbu Kefas of Taraba, Monday Okpebholo of Edo, Hyacinth Alia of Benue and Nasir Idris of Kebbi State, alongside deputy governors and other government officials.