President Bola Tinubu says he has saved Nigeria’s economy from total collapse, he made this statement while speaking to Nigerians in Saint Lucia during an interactive session.
According to Tinubu, when he became president, Nigeria was already near bankruptcy. He said his government has brought the country back from the edge and restored investor confidence.
“We inherited a country that was near bankruptcy. But we have been able to rescue the economy. Nigeria has recovered,” Tinubu said.
Tinubu Says He Saved Nigeria’s Economy Despite Rising Hardship
The President made this bold claim in a meeting with Nigerian professionals, students, and religious leaders in Saint Lucia. The session was held at the Windjammer Resort in Castries.
Tinubu said his administration stopped the smuggling of oil and ended the rush for foreign exchange at the Central Bank of Nigeria.
“We have made the smuggling of our oil unattractive. We have stopped chasing forex papers at the Central Bank of Nigeria,” Tinubu said.
He admitted that Nigeria’s per capita income is still low, but assured that his government is working on policies for long-term stability and inclusive growth.
However, many Nigerians may wonder—how true are Tinubu’s words? In a country where ₦100 barely buys anything, can anyone really say Nigeria’s economy has recovered?
Nigerians Abroad Cry Out
The meeting also raised concerns from Nigerians living in Saint Lucia. Some complained about the high cost of work permits, which stand at $2,500 per year. They also requested for a Nigerian embassy in the country.
The President of Nigerians in Diaspora Organisation, Smart Duah, said the high fees are a major burden. He urged Tinubu to quickly set up a diplomatic office in Saint Lucia.
Tinubu replied, promising to look into the matter through diplomatic channels.
Also at the meeting, a Nigerian paediatrician, Dr. Olugbemisola Ogunlusi, praised Tinubu for engaging with the diaspora community.
“Since you arrived, you have propagated Nigeria more than we ever thought,” she said.
Father Festus Iwuagwu, a Nigerian priest, said the large crowd at the meeting shows the respect Nigerians have for Tinubu.
During the session, Tinubu urged Nigerians in Saint Lucia to remain law-abiding and portray the country positively.
“My plea to you all: continue to be of good behaviour, don’t break the law,” he said.
He also shared his experience as a student in the United States over 50 years ago. He advised the community to stay consistent and work hard.
“Life is about working hard, being consistent,” Tinubu added.
At the end of the event, the Nigerian community presented Tinubu with a portrait made by Doris, a medical student and visual artist in Saint Lucia.
Tinubu Says He Saved Nigeria’s Economy, But Many Nigerians Are Not Convinced
While President Tinubu says he has saved Nigeria’s economy, many Nigerians back home are still facing severe hardships. Food prices are rising every day. The naira has lost value to the point where ₦100 is almost useless.
This raises serious questions: has the economy truly recovered? Or is this just political talk? Many Nigerians are yet to feel any relief.
In his words, “Nigeria has recovered.” But many Nigerians are asking: recovered for who?
