President Bola Tinubu on Monday night said Nigeria has overcome major economic difficulties under his administration, stating that state governors no longer depend on bank loans to pay workers’ salaries.
The President made the remarks while hosting religious and traditional leaders at an interfaith breaking of the fast at the Presidential Villa in Abuja. The event brought together leaders from different faiths and traditional institutions across the country.
Speaking during the gathering, Tinubu expressed gratitude for the opportunity to lead the country and reaffirmed his commitment to continue implementing policies aimed at strengthening the economy and improving the well-being of Nigerians.
“I am just grateful, one person among millions, that I have been given the opportunity to serve. And all I can do is promise that I will continue to be faithful in discharging my duty,” the President said.
Tinubu stated that the country’s economic outlook has improved compared to the situation his administration inherited. According to him, reforms introduced by the government are gradually stabilising the economy and restoring confidence.
“I can report that the economy has turned the corner. It is getting better. Pensioners are getting their relief gradually. We have saved Nigeria from bankruptcy,” he said.
The President noted that when his administration assumed office, the economic situation was extremely challenging, but added that the country has managed to overcome the worst phase of the crisis.
“It was very daunting and challenging when we took over. But today, I can say with pride and joy that we have survived,” Tinubu stated.
He also emphasised that improvements in government revenue and fiscal management have reduced the financial pressure on state governments.
According to him, governors across the country are no longer forced to approach banks for loans in order to meet salary obligations to their workers.
Tinubu further assured Nigerians that the government would not allow forces seeking to destabilise the country to undermine its unity, peace, and sovereignty.
He acknowledged the important roles played by religious and traditional leaders in promoting harmony, moral values, and stability in communities across the country.
In his remarks, the Etsu Nupe, Alhaji Yahaya Abubakar, thanked the President for bringing together leaders of the two major religions for the breaking of the fast, describing the gesture as a symbol of national unity.
The traditional ruler also offered prayers for God’s guidance and protection for the country, as well as success for the President in steering Nigeria toward peace and development.
Representatives of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), including its President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, and Dr Stephen Baba-Panya, President of the Evangelical Church Winning All (ECWA), assured the President of the church’s continued support for efforts aimed at improving the economy and strengthening national security.
The event was attended by traditional rulers and religious leaders drawn from the six geopolitical zones of the country.
