President Tinubu addressed the CBCN, asserting hope for Nigeria despite rising economic hardships, defending the fuel subsidy removal, and emphasizing impartiality in handling insecurity affecting all citizens, yet the reality reveals increasing inflation and poverty.
On Friday, President Bola Tinubu addressed the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, emphasizing that the ongoing insecurity in Nigeria does not discriminate by religion. Despite widespread hardship and public discontent, he reiterated that there is still hope for Nigerians, while defending his contentious policies, particularly the removal of the fuel subsidy.
Acknowledging the current economic struggles, President Tinubu expressed that his administration is attentive to the challenges faced by citizens and is committed to making beneficial decisions. He stated that the decision to remove the fuel subsidy, though difficult, was essential to prevent financial disaster for the country.
He remarked, “Yes, removing the fuel subsidy was hard, tough for me, but it’s a hard choice that Nigeria must face. We are not going to bankrupt our country,” according to his media aide, Bayo Onanuga. Furthermore, he claimed to observe positive outcomes from his policies, including increased foreign investments and enhancements in the agricultural sector.
In his speech, he conveyed optimism about Nigeria’s economic future, asserting, “There is hope; people are coming in to invest. They are saying good things about Nigeria. I am very proud of that. What seems to be a very difficult beginning is now showing us hope. And we are not even at half-time yet.”
President Tinubu also assured the Catholic bishops of his impartial stance regarding religious matters, insisting that insecurity impacts all Nigerians, regardless of their faith. He stated, “I have no religious bias; I won’t be a bigot. My wife is a pastor in the Redeemed Christian Church.”
Although he claimed that security agencies were addressing the escalating insecurity, this assertion has drawn skepticism among many Nigerians, especially given the persistent violence and kidnappings. While the President portrayed an encouraging image of the economy, the reality is stark. Following the fuel subsidy elimination, prices have surged, inflation has soared, the Naira has weakened against the dollar, and many Nigerians have fallen deeper into poverty.
In summary, President Bola Tinubu addressed the Catholic Bishops’ Conference, asserting a commitment to Nigeria’s welfare and defending his policies despite escalating economic challenges. His remarks emphasize hope and impartiality regarding religion in the face of insecurity. However, the rising cost of living and inflation points to a troubling reality for many citizens, contradicting his optimism.
Original Source: saharareporters.com
