President Bola Tinubu has reassured Nigerians that the country will navigate its current economic challenges, including electricity shortages, rising transportation costs, and inflation pressures, despite the ongoing war in the Middle East.
Speaking to journalists after special prayers at the National Mosque in Abuja on Sunday, the President acknowledged the difficulties facing the nation but expressed confidence in Nigeria’s resilience.
“We face challenges – electricity issues, transportation hikes, and expected inflation due to events beyond our control but we will overcome them. Our nation is resilient, and with faith in Almighty God, we will surpass these hardships,” Tinubu said.
The prayers, held in honour of the President’s 74th birthday, brought together governors, ministers, traditional rulers, and Islamic scholars. The Sultan of Sokoto, represented by the Etsu Nupe, Yahaya Abubakar, led the prayers, describing the gathering as a spiritual exercise focused on seeking guidance, health, and wisdom for the President.
Vice President Kashim Shettima described the event as a “celebration of service and commitment to the common good,” while the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, praised Tinubu for his leadership and resilience.
Governors and party officials also highlighted the administration’s economic reforms and investments, noting progress in infrastructure, agriculture, and salary payments.
Kwara State Governor and chairman of the Nigeria Governors Forum, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, said the country had achieved more in three years than in the previous decade, thanks to policy interventions.
Tinubu emphasized that the nation’s economic pressures are largely due to external factors, particularly the US-Israeli-Iranian conflict affecting global oil and gas supplies. He assured Nigerians that his administration’s reform agenda, including plans to add 1,500 megawatts to the national grid, is producing results.
The President called on citizens to reflect, give thanks, and rededicate themselves to national development, stressing that Nigeria is beginning to see “a glimmer of light at the end of the tunnel” despite temporary setbacks caused by international events.
