President Bola Tinubu has publicly acknowledged the hardship Nigerians are facing under his administration’s economic reforms, saying he shares their pain and has also felt the personal toll.
Speaking on Sunday, May 24, after receiving the Certificate of Return and APC flag as the party’s candidate for the 2027 presidential election in Abuja, Tinubu addressed the frustration and fatigue many citizens have expressed since the removal of fuel subsidies and other policy shifts.
“I shared the pain with you. I know what it takes to reform this economy that was in tatters. If you lost sleep, I lost some too. If you have lost weight, I think I have lost some too,” Tinubu said during his acceptance speech.
The comment came as he thanked party leaders, electoral committee members, and Nigerians across the country for their support despite the difficulties. He noted that the reforms were necessary to fix an economy that was “in tatters” when he took office in 2023.
Tinubu added that he had not forgotten why he sought the presidency in 2022. “I asked for this job, and you all supported me, and I got it, so I must do it,” he said. The statement was aimed at reinforcing his commitment to seeing the reforms through, even as inflation, rising food prices, and the cost of living continue to strain households.
Since taking office, the administration has implemented major changes including fuel subsidy removal, exchange rate unification, and efforts to boost local refining. While officials argue these measures are needed for long-term stability, the immediate impact has been higher transportation costs, increased food prices, and reduced purchasing power for many Nigerians.
The president’s remarks quickly circulated online, with mixed reactions. Some praised him for acknowledging the sacrifice on both sides, while others said recognition alone was not enough without visible relief for ordinary households. Critics argue that statements about shared sacrifice ring hollow if leaders are not seen to be cutting the cost of governance.
Tinubu also used the occasion to call for unity and patience, saying the administration remains focused on policies it believes will place Nigeria on a stronger economic path. He pledged to build a more inclusive government that listens and leads with the best interest of Nigerians at heart….See More
