Bukola Afeni
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has assured Nigerians that the country will not allow “agents of instability” to undermine its peace, unity and sovereignty, despite ongoing security challenges.
The president gave the assurance on Monday while hosting religious and traditional leaders for an interfaith breaking of the fast at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, where he acknowledged the role of faith and traditional leaders in promoting peace and stability across communities.
“Yes, we are challenged; the terrorists are very desperate now because they are getting barraged and defeated… But I assure you of one thing: Nigeria will never surrender. We are not discouraged. We are going to win and win well,” Tinubu said.
The president also expressed optimism about the country’s economic outlook, saying his administration had taken difficult steps to stabilise the economy since assuming office.
“I can report that the economy has turned the corner. It is getting better. Pensioners are getting their relief gradually. We have saved Nigeria from bankruptcy,” he said.
Tinubu added that the situation was “daunting and challenging” when his government took office but noted that progress had been made, particularly in easing financial pressures on state governments.
“No governor in this country is running around the banks to borrow money to pay the salaries of their workers,” he said.
In a statement issued on March 9 by the president’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu reaffirmed his commitment to increasing investment in critical sectors such as agriculture and education to create long-term benefits for future generations.
He also urged Nigerians not to lose hope, assuring them that his administration remains focused on improving security and building a more prosperous nation.
Speaking at the event, the Yahaya Abubakar thanked the president for bringing together leaders of different faiths, describing the interfaith gathering as a symbol of unity. He offered prayers for peace, national stability and the success of the administration.
Abubakar said he represented the Nigeria Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs and its president-general, Sa’ad Abubakar, at the event.
Also speaking, Daniel Okoh, representing Stephen Baba-Panya, said the church would support the government’s efforts to improve the economy and strengthen national security.
