President Bola Tinubu has assured Nigerians that the framework for palliatives to remedy the effects of fuel subsidy removal was being worked out, saying the decision was in the best interest of the country.
Tinubu appealed for more patience from Nigerians, stressing that his government will increase effort, speed up the process and ensure a full-proof social security structure that will not be compromised, especially in cash-transfer.
The president said this during a meeting with state governors elected in 1999, otherwise known as ‘Class of 1999’, at the Presidential Villa in Abuja on Wednesday, July 12, 2023.
He said: “I understand that our people are suffering yet there can be no childbirth without pain. The joy of childbirth is the relief that comes after the pain. Nigeria is reborn already with fuel subsidy removal. It is a rebirth of the country for the largest number over a few smugglers.
“Please tell the people to be a little patient.
“The palliative is coming. I don’t want cash-transfer to fall into wrong hands. I know it pinches and it is difficult. In the end, we will rejoice in the prosperity of our country.
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“We served as governors and sat in this Council Chamber. All I wanted was democracy and the salvation of the country. I never thought I was going to be here as President, but God Almighty has brought me.”
President Tinubu further assured the governors and Nigerians that he will work towards “unity, equity, stability, and prosperity of the country”.
Tinubu added: “My commitment to that democratic value is unwavering. I am overwhelmed and honored by the numbers of you here.
“I have an open door policy. You are my advisers. We went into the pond and wrestled with a pig. We got dirty, and cleaned up. That is why I am here today.”
President Tinubu noted that the country will not make meaningful progress without fixing electricity, assuring that his administration will harness gas resources and explore every opportunity to ensure stable power generation and supply.
On security, the president, who had earlier met with Governor Babagana Zulum of Borno State to review situation in the North-East, appealed to Nigerians, especially the people of Plateau State, to sheath their swords and use dialogue in resolving conflicts.
He added that issues of borders were man-made and not created by God.
“We will do everything possible to stabilise the country,” Tinubu added.
The former governors urged the president to pursue his vision for a greater Nigeria with vigour, steadfastness, and resilience, trusting their support for development policies, and promising to provide the necessary social structure for actualisation.
“We are here with you. We are your foot soldiers, and you can tap into our experience. You are a person who believes in Nigeria.
“With your good leadership, Nigeria will take its place,” the former governor of Edo State, Lucky Igbinedion, said on behalf of the ex-governors.
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