President Bola Tinubu has stated his administration commitment to combating smuggling activities and confronting what he terms as “old subsidy beneficiaries” in Nigeria.
Speaking at a meeting with members of the Forum of State Chairmen of the All Progressives’ Congress (APC) at the State House in Abuja, President Tinubu stated the need to defend the treasury for the benefit of the people.
Since assuming office in May 2023, President Tinubu has implemented measures aimed at discontinuing petroleum subsidies and unifying foreign exchange rates to eliminate long-standing arbitrage. However, he acknowledged that these actions have faced resistance from individuals and groups who benefited from the previous subsidy regime.
Addressing the challenges ahead, President Tinubu stated, “As we are fighting corruption, smugglers, and old subsidy beneficiaries, they most certainly will fight back. But we will defend our people. The treasury belongs to the people, and that sacred trust must not be abused.”
He highlighted the importance of delivering hope and improving the living conditions of Nigerians, stressing the government’s commitment to progressive policies. He outlined plans for initiatives such as student loans, a national consumer credit system, and social welfare programs for the unemployed and graduates.
Tinubu also noted the importance of agriculture in driving economic growth and reducing food imports. He revealed plans to prioritize mechanized farming and large-scale livestock farming, aimed at addressing the longstanding conflict between farmers and nomadic cattle herders.
Furthermore, Tinubu urged grassroots leaders to encourage citizens to obtain their National Identification Number (NIN), emphasizing its importance for planning and implementing relief programs effectively.
In response to the President’s directives, APC National Chairman, Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje, announced plans to establish the Progressive Institute of Policy and Development to benefit party members and the broader Nigerian public.
The Forum of APC State Chairmen pledged their continued support for President Tinubu’s administration as it implements its economic programs, expressing confidence in the government’s ability to overcome challenges and uplift the nation.
