President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, speaking at the National Policy Summit organized by the All Progressives Congress (APC), delivered a passionate address that blended gratitude, defiance, and an urgent call for continued support from Nigerians. Reflecting on the two years since assuming office, the President reaffirmed his commitment to the “Renewed Hope” agenda, which he says is already bearing fruit despite fierce resistance from entrenched interests.
In a speech filled with sharp analogies and candid admissions, Tinubu made it clear that his administration has chosen the difficult but necessary path to economic recovery. “The subsidy is gone and was gone for the good of this country. We couldn’t just afford to spend the future of our children and on babies ahead of their birth,” he declared.
But perhaps the most jaw-dropping moment came when he referenced the level of corruption unearthed since his reforms began. “How fast will you have constructed this country if you allow the arbitrage in the exchange rates to continue?” he asked. It was then he delivered a shocking revelation that shook the summit to its core: “EFCC found 750 homes in one name, but you’re complaining about rice prices?” The comment, aimed at silencing critics and highlighting the scale of past corruption, sparked both applause and stunned silence.
Tinubu acknowledged the hardships faced by everyday Nigerians, but insisted that the pain of reform is the necessary price for long-term gain. “We have redirected the easy money away from currency speculators and greedy barons… directed this fund to healthcare, education, and infrastructure,” he stated.
While thanking party leaders and Nigerians for their patience, he emphasized that the journey is far from over, but the destination is clear: a stable, industrialized Nigeria. He urged citizens not to abandon ship, reassuring them that the current sacrifices are the foundation for future prosperity. “Stay the course,” Tinubu concluded, “not because it is easy, but because it is the only way.”
