President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has said that Nigeria has overcome significant economic challenges under his administration, emphasizing that state governors no longer rely on bank loans to pay workers’ salaries.
The President made the remarks on Monday while hosting religious and traditional leaders for an interfaith Ramadan fast-breaking at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, according to a statement by his spokesperson, Bayo Onanuga.
Tinubu expressed gratitude for the opportunity to lead the country and pledged to remain committed to policies aimed at sustaining economic growth and national prosperity.
“I am just grateful, one person among millions, that I have been given the opportunity to serve. All I can do is promise that I will continue to be faithful in discharging my duty. I can report that the economy has turned the corner,” he said.
He noted that pensioners are gradually receiving relief and that the government has averted a potential national bankruptcy. “It was very daunting and challenging when we took over. But today I can say with pride and joy that we have survived. No governor in this country is running around the banks to borrow money to pay the salaries of their workers,” Tinubu added.
Addressing the nation’s security situation, the President acknowledged ongoing threats from terrorists but assured Nigerians that the country would not yield to instability. “Yes, we are challenged; the terrorists are very desperate now because they are being defeated. But I assure you of one thing: Nigeria will never surrender. We are not discouraged. We are going to win and win well,” he stated.
Tinubu reaffirmed his commitment to investing in critical sectors such as agriculture and education, stressing the importance of leaving a lasting legacy for future generations. He urged Nigerians to remain hopeful, emphasizing that his administration remains focused on building a safer, more secure, and prosperous nation for all.
During the event, the Etsu Nupe, Yahaya Abubakar, expressed gratitude to the President for bringing together leaders of the country’s two major religions, describing it as a symbol of unity. He prayed for divine guidance, protection, and peaceful coexistence, while also seeking success for the Tinubu administration. The Etsu Nupe represented the Nigeria Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs and the Sultan of Sokoto, Sa'ad Abubakar.
Representatives of the Christian Association of Nigeria, including Archbishop Daniel Okoh and Dr. Stephen Baba-Panya, President of the Evangelical Church Winning All (ECWA), pledged the church’s support for the government’s efforts to transform the economy and strengthen national security.
Traditional rulers and religious leaders from the six geopolitical zones of Nigeria attended the event, reinforcing the message of unity and collaboration.
