Politics

Tinubu to ministers: You must fetch water from dry well

President Bola Tinubu has charged ministers to look beyond titles and offices and stay focused on their contributions to the transformation of the economy for the upliftment of Nigerians.

Tinubu told the new ministers that the hopes and aspirations of Nigerians rested on their daily actions, stressing that he will relentlessly provide the focused leadership required to stop failure in his administration so that sustainable progress can be achieved.

He said the ministers must fetch water from a dry well, noting that the challenges bedevilling Nigeria are high.

The president made the declaration at the inaugural meeting of the Federal Executive Council (FEC) held at the Presidential Villa in Abuja on Monday, August 28, 2023.

He said: “We shall evolve a homegrown re-engineering of our finances, a reimagined stewardship of our resources, and we will let the economy work for the people of this country.

“There are so many things we can and will do. Yes, some cynics will say it is impossible. But in your own dictionary of service, everything is possible, and it must be possible.”

President Tinubu stated that his cabinet members know that his government is a new one with a new approach and a new mandate to deliver for Nigeria without any lamentation or excuses.

Tinubu said: “We have the talent. We have the level of intellectual capacity required to turn this country around.

“We will make sure that the country is on the right path to succeed on behalf of more than 200 million Nigerians who rely on us.”

President Tinubu noted that the country would rely on the experience, skill, intellect, and networking of those that had been appointed to make headway in the challenging times, saying failure would not be explained away under his watch.

He added: “You and I know that expectations are high, and these are tough times. We must work hard and move ourselves to create a buoyant economy that will serve Nigeria.

“We have an employment rate that is unacceptable, and we are facing threats from climate change.

“In order to turn things around, you have been selected to perform your utmost best. Our policy implementation will reform the economy, ensure inclusive growth, and strengthen security for peace and prosperity. Without security, there can be no investment.

“It is in your hands now. I am ready to listen and to cooperate. I am ready even to be corrected. Only God is perfect. You have been asked to fetch water from a dry well. The challenges are great, but we will deliver for Nigerians. I am happy to be the captain of this vehicle.

“It is a great commitment that you have made to the country. Since your inauguration as a minister, you have become a servant for the people, serving all of the people, all of the time.”

The Star