President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has defended his administration’s controversial economic reforms, insisting that the difficult decisions taken over the past three years are beginning to deliver positive results for Nigerians.
In his Eid-el-Kabir message released on Tuesday ahead of the Sallah celebration, the president acknowledged the hardship many citizens have faced but maintained that the sacrifices were necessary to secure a stronger and more stable Nigeria.
According to Tinubu, the country is gradually emerging from its economic struggles and moving toward recovery, investment growth, and job creation.
“The walk through the dark tunnel is over, and the light is here,” the president declared.
Tinubu said his administration’s reforms, including the removal of petrol subsidy and the unification of the foreign exchange market, were difficult but essential steps aimed at rebuilding the economy for future generations.
“The reforms we have undertaken are challenging but necessary to build a stronger and more prosperous Nigeria,” he said.
Since taking office in 2023, Tinubu’s economic policies have sparked mixed reactions across the country. While international financial institutions and some economic experts praised the reforms, millions of Nigerians have struggled with rising fuel prices, transportation costs, food inflation, and the falling value of the naira.
Despite the hardship, the Federal Government insists the policies have helped stabilise the economy, improve investor confidence, and create room for increased spending on critical sectors such as healthcare, education, and infrastructure.
In his Sallah message, Tinubu also addressed the worsening insecurity affecting several communities across Nigeria, including terrorism, kidnapping, and bandit attacks.
The president admitted that attacks were still occurring despite intensified military operations and security crackdowns.
“I assure you: you are neither abandoned nor forgotten. We will ultimately defeat all the forces of evil,” Tinubu said.
He praised the efforts of security agencies and referenced the recent elimination of a wanted ISIS leader as part of ongoing efforts to restore peace across the country.
Tinubu further urged Nigerians to embrace the spirit of sacrifice, compassion, unity, and love during the Eid-el-Kabir celebration.
He encouraged Muslims to remember the less privileged, pray for the country, and continue supporting one another during difficult times.
“My administration remains committed to building a Nigeria where all citizens can live in peace, worship freely, and pursue their dreams without fear,” he added.
The president’s remarks are already generating reactions online, with many Nigerians debating whether the government’s reforms are truly improving daily life or deepening hardship across the country.
Source: Eid-el-Kabir message by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu
