The Traffic

Tinubu Declares Economic Turnaround at Ramadan Iftar

By Achimi Muktar

In a confident and optimistic address, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu announced that Nigeria’s economy has made a remarkable turnaround, signaling a new era of stability and growth. Speaking at an Iftar dinner at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, Tinubu assured Nigerians that his administration’s bold economic decisions are yielding positive results.

"When we started, it looked so foggy, dicey, and hopeless. We were fetching water from a dry well," Tinubu reflected. "But today, the economy has turned the corner; prices are falling, confidence is improving, and investors are looking in."

The President’s declaration comes at a critical time, as Nigerians grapple with economic hardships and fluctuating food prices, particularly during the Ramadan period. However, he remained steadfast in his belief that the worst is behind, urging governors and policymakers to sustain the momentum.

A Call for Unity and Responsible Governance

Addressing the gathering of governors, ministers, military chiefs, and top government officials, Tinubu emphasized the need for collective effort in nation-building. He praised the resilience of both federal and state governments in navigating economic challenges and urged them to maintain their commitment to public welfare.

"I want us to just continue doing what we’re doing, to do more for our people," he said. "Look upon yourself as a great navigator that will bring this country back to its promising self."

The President stressed the importance of responsible financial management, highlighting the need to prioritize spending on development rather than wasteful expenditures.

"We make sure that we can only spend the money, but not the people. And you, at the sub-national level, too, you’re doing all you can to spend the money and not the people," he stated.

Optimism Amidst Economic Reforms

Tinubu's remarks were met with agreement from top government officials. Kwara State Governor and Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, commended the President for his bold economic reforms. Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia highlighted the rare coincidence of Muslims and Christians fasting at the same time, emphasizing unity in faith and governance.

Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), reinforced the positive trajectory of the economy, noting that food and commodity prices were steadily dropping—a key indicator of economic recovery.

A Nation on the Path to Recovery

With Vice President Kashim Shettima, Chief of Staff Femi Gbajabiamila, and several Federal Executive Council (FEC) members in attendance, the event underscored the government’s commitment to steering Nigeria towards economic stability.

"May God continue to abide with us, with hope and strength and all the energies required to do good and push this country better than it is today. I promise you I’ll continue to work hard," Tinubu assured.

As Nigeria continues its economic journey, the President’s words signal a renewed sense of optimism—one that, if sustained, could mark the beginning of a long-awaited recovery for millions of Nigerians.