In a heartfelt New Year address, President Tinubu expressed gratitude to the citizens of Nigeria, both young and old, as they embark on the journey of 2024. Despite the challenges of the past year, the President highlighted significant milestones, particularly the peaceful and successful transfer of power from one administration to another, marking another step in the nation’s 24 years of unbroken democracy.
Addressing the nation, President Tinubu acknowledged the trust placed in him by the people, who elected him with a clear mandate to improve the country across various fronts. The President’s Renewed Hope campaign, centered on revitalizing the economy, restoring security, and fostering national greatness, resonated with the voters.
The President reflected on the challenging decisions made during the past seven months of his administration. Notably, the removal of the longstanding fuel subsidy and the restructuring of the foreign exchange system was implemented to ensure fiscal stability and equitable distribution of resources. While these decisions brought discomfort, President Tinubu emphasized their necessity for the long-term benefit of all Nigerians.
Acknowledging the rising cost of living, high inflation, and underemployment rate, the President reassured the citizens that their concerns were not ignored. From the corporate boardrooms in Lagos to the streets of Kano and the creeks of Bayelsa, President Tinubu empathized with the struggles of hardworking Nigerians. He encouraged citizens to remain resilient, stating that tough times are temporary, and the nation is equipped to overcome challenges.
President Tinubu highlighted achievements in addressing security concerns, including efforts to secure the release of captives from abductors. While acknowledging that not all security issues have been resolved, the President assured Nigerians of continuous efforts to ensure peace in homes, workplaces, and on roads.
Looking ahead, President Tinubu outlined plans for accelerated service delivery in various sectors. Collaborating with global partners, a commitment was made to expedite the Siemens Energy power project, aiming to provide reliable electricity to homes and businesses under the Presidential Power Initiative.
In the realm of agriculture, the President detailed plans to cultivate 500,000 hectares of farmland across the country, focusing on staple crops to ensure food security and affordability. The ongoing projects, such as the local refining of petroleum products with the Port Harcourt Refinery and the Dangote Refinery, signify a commitment to energy self-sufficiency.
As President Tinubu concluded the address, he emphasized the collective responsibility of citizens in building a better nation. The challenges faced in 2023 should serve as motivation for a renewed commitment to a prosperous Nigeria in 2024, with each citizen contributing to the nation’s growth and development.