President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has asserted that it is not in his nature to cause suffering or hardship for Nigerians. Speaking at the 48th convocation ceremony of Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) in Ile-Ife, Osun State, on December 14, he acknowledged the challenging economic climate, stating, “I am fully aware of the difficult situation facing our nation, and I derive no satisfaction from causing pain or distress among my fellow citizens.”
Accompanied by his Special Adviser on Economy, Dr. Tope Fasua, President Tinubu urged Nigerians to exercise patience as his administration strives to rectify the errors of previous governments. He emphasized that his administration is focused on fostering an environment that benefits all citizens, without engaging in a blame game.
“Our reform initiatives are designed to ensure the functionality of Nigeria for every individual, although the accompanying discomfort of these reforms must be endured for the time being,” he explained.
The President recognized the significant challenges posed by the repercussions of past policies that have not yielded beneficial outcomes for the general populace. “We have willingly taken on both the assets and liabilities left by our predecessors, with no intention of assigning blame to any person or group,” he stated.
As the government works to amend and improve upon past mistakes, Tinubu called on all Nigerians to collaborate and tolerate the unintended hardships during this transition, expressing hope that, like the graduates honored that day, they would eventually have cause to celebrate. “I can see the light at the end of our tunnel,” he affirmed.
Additionally, First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu encouraged the graduating students to adopt innovative thinking in order to capitalize on forthcoming opportunities. “I urge you all to think creatively and embrace the opportunities that lie ahead. We must acknowledge that achieving significant progress will require a different approach,” she advised.
