President Bola Tinubu has assured Nigerians that he understands their current struggles but insists that ongoing economic reforms are necessary to build a stronger nation and secure the future for the next generation.
Speaking at the Presidential Villa in Abuja while hosting the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria (CBCN), Tinubu emphasized the need for both citizens and leaders to invest in the country’s development. He stressed that poverty affects all Nigerians, regardless of religion, and called for a united effort to combat it.
Addressing economic policies, Tinubu defended the removal of fuel subsidies, acknowledging it as a tough but essential decision to prevent national bankruptcy.
“Yes, removing the fuel subsidy was hard, tough for me, but it’s a choice Nigeria must face. We cannot afford to bankrupt our country,” Tinubu stated.
He further explained that past expenditures were depleting resources meant for future generations and reiterated his administration’s commitment to economic stability.
On the request to return mission schools previously taken over by the government, Tinubu clarified that education is managed at the state level, not by the federal government. He cited his tenure as Lagos State governor, during which he returned mission schools to religious bodies.
The President also praised the Catholic Church’s role in education and healthcare, highlighting his administration’s efforts to support students through the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND). He acknowledged the need to explore ways to assist students in private institutions who do not currently benefit from the initiative.
Regarding national security, Tinubu assured that security agencies were making progress in tackling insecurity, which affects all citizens, regardless of religious affiliation.
“This insecurity affects everyone Christians and Muslims alike. I have no religious bias. My wife is a pastor, but above all, we must think of our country,” he said, reaffirming his commitment to religious inclusivity.
Tinubu expressed gratitude for the prayers of religious leaders, attributing recent economic improvements to collective efforts. He pointed to increased investor confidence, improved competition in the petroleum sector, and a promising agricultural yield as signs of progress.
“There is hope. People are investing in Nigeria and speaking positively about our country. What started as a difficult phase is now showing signs of promise,” Tinubu said.
The CBCN delegation, led by Most Reverend Lucius Iwejuru Ugorji, Archbishop of Owerri, congratulated the President on his electoral victory and acknowledged his efforts in repositioning the nation.
Ugorji highlighted the alignment between Tinubu’s “Renewed Hope” agenda and Pope Francis’ declaration of the year as the “Jubilee Year of Hope.” He commended the government’s tax reform initiative while urging more decisive action to address insecurity and restore public confidence.
The bishops also advocated for a vision of religion that promotes moral integrity and national unity while respecting individual rights.
