President Bola Ahmed Tinubu highlighted the challenges faced in 2023 while outlining an unwavering vision for Nigeria’s future in a stirring and comprehensive New Year address.
Emphasizing unity, progress, and shared responsibility, the President’s speech resonated with a call for collective action to steer the nation towards a brighter tomorrow.
President Tinubu commenced his address by expressing gratitude for the country’s blessings in the past year despite the challenges.
Addressing the tough decisions taken by his administration, including the removal of fuel subsidies and reforms in the foreign exchange system, Tinubu acknowledged the discomfort the actions might have caused but underlined their necessity for the nation’s fiscal stability.
Despite the current economic strains marked by rising living costs, high inflation, and underemployment, the President assured citizens that the tough times would not last.
He rallied Nigerians to remain resolute, expressing commitment to ensuring peace and security and accelerating service delivery across sectors.
He said: ”Dear Compatriots, take this from me: the time may be rough and tough, however, our spirit must remain unbowed because tough times never last. We are made for this period, never to flinch, never to falter.
”The socio-economic challenges of today should energize and rekindle our love and faith in the promise of Nigeria. Our current circumstances should make us resolve to work better for the good of our beloved nation.
”Our situation should make us resolve that this New Year 2024, each and every one of us will commit to be better citizens.”
Highlighting critical initiatives in the energy sector, Tinubu outlined plans to enhance electricity supply and restart local refining of petroleum products.
Additionally, he underscored efforts to cultivate farmlands for increased food security and announced forthcoming fiscal and tax policy reforms to foster a more conducive business environment for local and foreign investments.
The President reaffirmed his commitment to fairness, equity, and narrowing inequality gaps while calling upon all Nigerians to work collectively for the nation’s peace, progress, and stability.
He extended an olive branch to political opponents, urging unity beyond electoral divides for the nation’s greater good.
In conclusion, President Tinubu wished the nation a prosperous 2024, invoking blessings for the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
