President Bola Tinubu on Wednesday assured Nigerians that the nation will overcome its current economic challenges.
Tinubu, who spoke at the Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) Conference in Abuja, said that poverty would not be Nigeria’s milestone.
“We may be poor; poverty is not going to be our milestone. We are going to come out of it,” he said.
The President explained that though the reforms his administration had undertaken were challenging, they were designed to place Nigeria’s economy on a strong and enduring footing.
“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.
“The signs of progress are visible in several sectors of the economy. Still, we know there is more work to do, and we remain focused on ensuring that growth translates into real improvements in the daily lives of Nigerians,” he explained.
But Tinubu said that every stakeholder, especially the media, had a role to play in improving the country.
“However, economic reforms and institutional improvements 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,” the President stated.
“I ask that you continue to exercise that responsibility with seriousness and honour. Let us choose clarity over confusion, responsibility over recklessness, and hope over despair.
“Let us remember that the stories we tell ourselves as a nation and as a people influence the country we become,” he told participants at the conference.
“Encourage Nigeria’s Military’
Tinubu also urged Nigerians to support the Nigerian armed forces.
“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
