Abuja, Nigeria – In an address to the nation, His Excellency Bola Ahmed Tinubu, President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, acknowledged the recent turmoil and violent protests that have erupted in several states. He appealed for calm and unity, emphasizing the need for dialogue and cooperation to move the country forward.
“My fellow Nigerians, I speak to you today with a heavy heart and a sense of responsibility, aware of the turmoil and violent protests unleashed in some of our states,” President Tinubu began, addressing the nation on the widespread unrest that has led to loss of lives and destruction of property. He particularly noted the involvement of young Nigerians in the protests, expressing empathy for their aspirations for a better country (“Notably among the protesters were young Nigerians who desired a better and more progressive country where their dreams, hopes, and personal aspirations would be fulfilled”).
The President expressed deep sorrow over the casualties and property damage in states such as Borno, Jigawa, Kano, and Kaduna. He condemned the violence and called for an immediate cessation of protests to pave the way for dialogue. “I commiserate with the families and relations of those who have died in the protests. We must stop further bloodshed, violence and destruction,” he urged.
Emphasizing his commitment to maintaining public order and protecting citizens, President Tinubu warned against those exploiting the situation for political gain. “As President of this country, I must ensure public order… our government will not stand idly by and allow a few with a clear political agenda to tear this nation apart,” he stated.
Highlighting his administration’s achievements and ongoing efforts to revitalize the economy, President Tinubu outlined several initiatives aimed at improving the lives of Nigerians. He discussed the removal of fuel subsidies and the abolition of multiple foreign exchange systems, which he described as necessary steps to eliminate economic mismanagement. “These actions blocked the greed and the profits that smugglers and rent-seekers made,” he explained.
President Tinubu also detailed the government’s efforts in various sectors, including significant strides in economic reforms, increased government revenues, and investments in infrastructure. He mentioned the progress in the oil and gas industry, the launch of the Compressed Natural Gas Initiative to reduce transportation costs, and the implementation of a student loan scheme to support Nigerian youth (“We have started the distribution of conversion kits and setting up of conversion centres across the country in conjunction with the private sector”).
Addressing the economic challenges and the measures taken to alleviate them, he assured Nigerians of his administration’s focus on delivering good governance. “I am focused fully on delivering the governance to the people – good governance for that matter,” he asserted.
The President called on all Nigerians to work together, regardless of age, party, tribe, or religion, to reshape the nation’s destiny. He emphasized the importance of unity and progress, urging citizens to reject violence and choose hope. “Let us choose hope over fear, unity over division, and progress over stagnation,” he said.
Concluding his address, President Tinubu reiterated his commitment to peace and security, encouraging cooperation between the government and the people to build a brighter future. “The safety and security of all Nigerians are paramount,” he affirmed, expressing gratitude and hope for the nation’s continued blessings.
“Forward ever, backward never!” President Tinubu declared, urging the nation to move forward with renewed hope and determination.
