President Bola Tinubu on Wednesday, November 12, vowed that poverty would not be the defining legacy of Nigeria, assuring citizens that the nation’s economic challenges are being actively addressed.
He made the statement at the Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) Conference in Abuja.
“We may be poor; poverty is not going to be our milestone. We are going to come out of it,” Tinubu said, framing economic recovery as central to his administration’s agenda.
He acknowledged that ongoing reforms are demanding but insisted they are necessary to place Nigeria on a sustainable growth path.
“On our part, this administration remains committed to securing our nation, sustaining economic stability, and widening the circle of opportunity for all citizens.
“The reforms we have undertaken have been challenging, but they are designed to place our economy on a strong and enduring footing.
“We have taken steps to restore macroeconomic balance, encourage investment, and rebuild confidence,” Tinubu explained.
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While noting visible signs of progress across sectors, the President emphasised that more work remains to ensure growth translates into real benefits for Nigerians.
Tinubu also called on all stakeholders, particularly the media, to support nation-building through reasoned discourse and unity.
“Economic reforms alone cannot build the Nigeria we seek. Nation-building requires cooperation. It requires trust. It requires a shared understanding that our future is tied together.
“The government has its role. The private sector has its role. Civil society has its role. And the media has a distinct responsibility to help shape a climate of reason and unity,” he said.
He urged Nigerians to uphold hope and responsibility, stressing that the stories told about the nation shape its future.
Addressing security challenges, Tinubu appealed for support of the armed forces, who risk their lives to defend Nigeria’s sovereignty.
“Yes, we are challenged by terrorism, banditry, and others. We recognise that. Are we doing something about it? Are we inspiring the armed forces? Are we encouraging them to fight?
“They put their lives on the line to defend the sovereignty of this country. It is our responsibility,” he added.