President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has declared that Nigeria has no justification to remain a poor nation, stressing that the country is abundantly blessed with human and natural resources capable of driving sustainable growth and global competitiveness.
Speaking at the Presidential Villa in Abuja during a meeting with economic stakeholders and members of the Federal Executive Council, President Tinubu said that with the right policies, discipline, and commitment to productivity, Nigeria can transform its potential into prosperity.
“Nigeria has no reason to be poor,” the President said firmly. “We have the people, the land, the natural endowments, and the creativity to build a prosperous nation. What we need now is honesty, focus, and collective determination to make it happen.”
Emphasis on Productivity and Self-Reliance
The President noted that his administration is determined to shift the economy from consumption to production, creating jobs and wealth through agriculture, manufacturing, digital technology, and energy reforms.
He reiterated that his government’s ongoing policies — including fuel subsidy removal, exchange rate unification, and investment in power and transport infrastructure — are designed to stimulate real economic growth, not short-term relief.
“We must stop depending on imports for everything,” Tinubu said. “We can feed ourselves, build our own industries, and export value-added products. Nigerians are among the most talented people on earth — our challenge has always been poor management, not lack of capacity.”
On Governance and Accountability
Tinubu emphasized that his administration would continue to promote accountability, transparency, and prudent management of public funds, adding that every minister and government official must justify the trust reposed in them by delivering measurable results.
“We will not tolerate waste or corruption,” he warned. “We owe it to our citizens to make every naira count. Government must be a symbol of integrity and service, not a burden on the people.”
Private Sector Collaboration
The President urged private sector players to partner with the government in transforming key sectors of the economy. He assured investors of a stable and predictable policy environment that encourages innovation and long-term investment.
He also commended Nigerian entrepreneurs who continue to create jobs and sustain industries despite economic challenges, saying they represent the resilience and potential of the Nigerian spirit.
Citizens’ Responsibility
Tinubu called on Nigerians to embrace patriotism, hard work, and discipline, saying that national prosperity requires collective effort from both the government and the people.
“Every Nigerian must believe in this country,” he said. “Our destiny is in our hands. If we are honest, productive, and united, no one can stop Nigeria from becoming a great nation.”
Conclusion
President Tinubu reaffirmed his commitment to steering Nigeria toward a future of shared prosperity, saying that the current difficulties are temporary pains on the path to economic renewal.
“I did not come here to complain,” he concluded. “I came to fix what is broken and build what is missing. Nigeria will rise — because this nation has no reason to be poor.”