Tinubu: I Removed Fuel Subsidy to Secure Nigeria’s Future
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reiterated that his administration’s decision to remove the fuel subsidy was aimed at protecting the future of unborn generations.
Speaking at the inauguration of the National Youth Congress Planning Committee at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, Tinubu reaffirmed his government’s commitment to youth empowerment, stressing that all policies are designed to ensure a prosperous future for Nigeria.
“I’ve listened to you carefully. Today is not for long speeches, I just want to reassure you that you are the hope of the country. Everything hangs on your future, and every decision I’ve taken is all about tomorrow,” Tinubu said.
He argued that fuel subsidies drained national resources that could otherwise be invested in critical infrastructure, adding that economic reforms would curb the trend of Nigerians seeking opportunities abroad.
“When you remove oil subsidy, you’re protecting the future of generations yet unborn. Where’s the investment for infrastructure? When you listen to professionals talking about Japa (migration), it’s because if you grow prosperity back home and empower people, they will not bother to leave,” he stated.
The President expressed optimism about Nigeria’s economic recovery, stating that conditions have improved despite initial challenges.
“When we started, it looked foggy, dicey, and hopeless. We tried hard, and we were fetching water from a dry well. But today, the economy has turned the corner, prices are falling, confidence in our economy is improving, investors are looking in, and technology is advancing,” he said.
Tinubu urged Nigerian youths to take ownership of the country’s future, emphasizing that governance is about securing prosperity for upcoming generations.
Meanwhile, the Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, highlighted that the upcoming youth conference will promote engagement and incorporate young people’s contributions into governance.
A lead member of the planning committee and Executive Director of Yiaga Africa, Samson Itodo, commended Tinubu for prioritizing youth participation in national development.