President Tinubu says Nigeria has emerged from its economic difficulties, pledging greater investment in young people and renewed commitment to national development
Tinubu Says Nigeria Economy Has Emerged From Economic Crisis
By Lukman OMIKUNLE
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has declared that Nigeria has emerged from its difficult economic phase, expressing confidence that his administration’s reforms have laid a solid foundation for sustainable growth and national prosperity.
The President also pledged to deepen investments in young Nigerians, insisting that creating opportunities for future generations remains one of the most important responsibilities of leadership.
Tinubu made the remarks on Monday while reflecting on his recent Umrah pilgrimage to Makkah, Saudi Arabia, where he was granted the rare privilege of entering the Holy Ka’abah to offer prayers alongside members of his Nigerian delegation.
According to a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President expressed optimism about the country’s economic outlook, describing the progress recorded under his administration as encouraging.
“The foundation is solid, and the economy has come out of the dark tunnel. This is inspiring,” Tinubu declared.
He stressed that the gains of ongoing reforms must translate into meaningful opportunities for young Nigerians, warning that the decisions taken by present-day leaders would shape how future generations remember them.
“We need to build a future for our youth. If we don’t invest in their future, how do we want to be remembered as leaders 50 years from now? That’s the main thing. So this is a rare privilege to lead the country,” he said.
The President said his spiritual experience in Saudi Arabia had further strengthened his determination to pursue national development and build a prosperous Nigeria.
“My commitment to Project Nigeria is higher. I am determined to usher in prosperity and fully develop the country, consistent with the wish of Allah and the support of the people.
“It is important to put Allah first, then move on. Follow your conscience. Follow the right path that will lead Nigeria to that greatness,” he stated.
Tinubu also disclosed that he had prayed for wisdom and resilience to discharge his responsibilities as President, expressing confidence that his supplications had been answered.
“Well, I asked for wisdom and resilience to continue to serve the people. I know that prayer has been granted. Before the 2023 election, I did the same thing. I asked Allah to bless my Umrah then, and He did.
“And I promised that I would come back to thank Him,” the President said.
Reflecting on the responsibilities of political leadership, Tinubu cited Surah Aal-Imran, Verse 26 of the Holy Qur’an, which emphasises that ultimate sovereignty belongs to Almighty Allah, who grants and withdraws power according to His will.
He said the teaching reinforced his belief that political authority was a sacred trust that must be exercised with humility, accountability and commitment to the welfare of citizens.
“There is no other God but Almighty Allah. He is the giver and the taker. He owns power and authority,” he said.
The President described his emergence as Nigeria’s leader and Commander-in-Chief as an extraordinary divine favour, adding that the opportunity imposed a responsibility to serve the country diligently.
“I have faith in that, and I believe extremely well that He has done me and my country a great favour. Out of many millions of people, to be the President and Commander-in-Chief is a favour that only Almighty God can do to a human being,” he added.
Tinubu also expressed appreciation to Saudi Arabia’s King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman for granting him and members of his delegation access to the Holy Ka’abah.
Sheikh Dahlulah Muthawal of Masjid al-Haram led the President into the sacred structure, where he offered prayers of gratitude for the opportunity to serve Nigeria.
Describing the experience as historic and deeply emotional, Tinubu said the gesture reflected the longstanding friendship and mutual respect between Nigeria and Saudi Arabia.
“I want to say a big thank you for the faith, for the recognition. I can’t believe the fencing of the Ka’abah is in Green-White-Green, which reminds us of the Nigerian identity.
“I thank the Crown Prince and all the administrators of the holy land. I thank them for the hospitality and recognition given to me as the leader of the delegation and the country,” he said.
The President said he remained grateful for the privilege, expressing confidence that faith and perseverance would help Nigeria and other nations overcome their challenges.
“We are all facing challenges and hostility around us. We will overcome them with faith in God Almighty. I’m grateful forever. I thank the King and the royal Crown Prince.
“It is an honour that I enjoyed, and it is gracious of them to have allowed me to enter inside the Ka’abah. This is history,” he declared.
He reiterated his administration’s commitment to strengthening the country’s economic foundations, expanding opportunities for young people and creating an environment where Nigerians could realise their potential.
Tinubu also pledged to justify the confidence reposed in him through purposeful leadership and sustained efforts towards national development.
Other members of the presidential delegation who participated in the spiritual exercise included Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi; Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Ali Pate; and the governors of Borno, Sokoto, Jigawa, Kaduna, Yobe and Kwara states.
Prominent business leaders, including BUA Group Chairman, Abdul Samad Rabiu, and Oando Chief Executive Officer, Wale Tinubu, were also part of the delegation.
Members of the delegation expressed gratitude to Almighty Allah and appreciation to Tinubu for the opportunity to accompany him into the Holy Ka’abah and offer prayers at one of Islam’s most sacred sites.
