President Bola Tinubu has firmly declared that the removal of the fuel subsidy is non-negotiable, despite ongoing #EndBadGovernance protests advocating for its reinstatement.
In a televised address on Sunday, the President reiterated his stance, describing the subsidy elimination as a difficult but crucial measure to revive the nation’s economy, which has been severely weakened by years of poor management.
Tinubu explained that the subsidy had become a significant obstacle to economic progress, likening it to a “noose around the economic jugular of our nation.”
He assured Nigerians that law enforcement would continue to protect the lives and property of innocent citizens while upholding and safeguarding their constitutional rights.
Reaffirming his dedication to good governance, transparency, and accountability, the President envisioned a prosperous society where every individual can experience peace, freedom, and a meaningful livelihood.
While acknowledging the immediate challenges caused by the subsidy removal, Tinubu emphasized the importance of addressing the long-term economic issues.
“For decades, our economy has remained weak, suffering due to various misalignments that have stifled our growth. Just over a year ago, our beloved country, Nigeria, reached a point where we could no longer afford to use short-term solutions to address long-term problems for the sake of both the present and future generations.
“Therefore, I made the painful but necessary decision to remove the fuel subsidy and eliminate multiple foreign exchange systems that had become a noose around our nation’s economic jugular, hindering our development and progress.
“These actions curtailed the greed and profits of smugglers and rent-seekers and ended the undue subsidies we had extended to neighboring countries, to the detriment of our own people, leaving our economy in a precarious state.
“These decisions were essential to reversing the decades of economic mismanagement that have not served us well. Yes, I accept that the ultimate responsibility lies with me.
“But I assure you that my focus remains on delivering good governance to the people—governance that truly serves their needs.”
