President urges media, citizens to support reforms and the armed forces…
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has expressed confidence that Nigeria will overcome its present economic difficulties, assuring citizens that poverty will not define the nation’s future.
Speaking at the Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) Conference held in Abuja on Wednesday, the President reaffirmed his administration’s determination to steer the country toward stability and prosperity.
“We may be poor; poverty is not going to be our milestone. We are going to come out of it,” Tinubu declared.
He explained that the ongoing economic reforms though difficult were designed to secure the nation’s financial foundation and ensure long-term growth.
“On our part, this administration remains committed to securing our nation, sustaining economic stability, and widening the circle of opportunity for all citizens,” he said. “The reforms we have undertaken have been challenging, but they are meant to place our economy on a strong and enduring footing. We have taken steps to restore macroeconomic balance, encourage investment, and rebuild confidence.”
Tinubu noted that early signs of progress were already visible across several sectors, but acknowledged that more work was needed to translate growth into real benefits for ordinary Nigerians.
Media’s Role in Nation Building
The President also called for unity and cooperation among all stakeholders, emphasizing that national progress depends on trust and shared responsibility.
“Economic reforms and institutional improvements alone cannot build the Nigeria we seek. Nation-building requires cooperation. It requires trust,” he said.
Tinubu urged the media to continue exercising its responsibilities with “seriousness and honour,” encouraging journalists to promote reason, responsibility, and hope.
“Let us choose clarity over confusion, responsibility over recklessness, and hope over despair,” he added. “The stories we tell ourselves as a nation influence the country we become.”
‘Encourage Nigeria’s Military’
President Tinubu also appealed to Nigerians to continue supporting the country’s armed forces as they confront terrorism, banditry, and other security threats.
“Yes, we are challenged by terrorism, banditry, and others. We recognise that,” he said. “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.”