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ENUGU, Nigeria (CHATNEWSTV) — President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Saturday defended his decision to remove the fuel subsidy, describing it as a necessary step to safeguard Nigeria’s economic future and prevent bankruptcy.
CHATNEWSTV report that the president said these while speaking at a town hall meeting in Enugu after inaugurating several infrastructure projects built by Governor Peter Mbah, Tinubu emphasized the long-term importance of the policy.
“We must build this house called Nigeria to not just satisfy our immediate need, but our tomorrow too,” Tinubu said. “That’s why the removal of the fuel subsidy was necessary. We cannot spend the future of generations yet unborn in advance. Don’t bankrupt the nation before they’re born.”
Tinubu had announced the removal of the fuel subsidy on May 29, 2023, during his inaugural address. While the decision was hailed by some as a move to stabilize the nation’s finances, critics argued that the policy was poorly implemented, citing a sharp increase in the cost of living and commodities.
Despite the criticism, Tinubu stood by his administration’s commitment to implementing reforms aimed at long-term economic stability. “Change is never easy, but it is essential for the growth and survival of our nation,” he told the audience.
The town hall meeting was part of Tinubu’s first official visit to Enugu, during which he also commissioned key projects, including the Enugu Smart Green Schools, Type 2 Primary Healthcare Centres, and the multi-auditorium Enugu International Conference Centre.
