President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reaffirmed his commitment to Nigeria’s economic reforms acknowledging the challenges faced by citizens but emphasizing that the measures are necessary for resilient future.
He made this known while receiving a delegation from Catholic Bishops Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) at the State House, Abuja.
President Tinubu stressed that removing the fuel subsidy was difficult yet essential decision to prevent economic collapse, adding that poverty affects all Nigerians, regardless of religion.
“Yes, removing fuel subsidy was hard, tough for me but It’s a hard choice that Nigeria must face. We are not going to bankrupt our county. We were spending the investment of the future of our children yet unborn, we were spending their rights, and poverty has no religious basis. There’s is no religious colouration, no identity. It affects all and we must fight it together”, he said.
He highlighted tax reforms as an opportunity for national development.
The CBCN delegation, led by Lucius Ugorji, commended the government’s efforts in repositioning the country but called on stronger measures to address insecurity.
“This insecurity, everyone is affected, Christians, Muslims alike, I have no religious bias, I won’t be a bigot.
“My wife is a pastor of Redeemed Christian Church, But we have to think of our country, this country must develop and must stand beyond religious bigotry. And I’m here open to you, ready to listen, we’ve been together for sometimes. We have an open door policy. I will not shut my door,”. he added
The bishops called for a clear vision of religion as a force for unity and suggested that government withdraw from funding religious pilgrimages to curb waste and corruption.
The Minister of Information Mohammed Idris and National Security Adviser Mallam Nuhu Ribadu were also present, with Idris highlighting improvements in security and economic stability.
-9News Nigeria.
