President Bola Tinubu has declared that growing opposition pressure ahead of the 2027 general elections will not distract his administration from pursuing its agenda, insisting he remains focused on rebuilding the country’s economy and governance structures.
Speaking on Thursday at the State House in Abuja while hosting members of the Renewed Hope Ambassadors, the president said political criticism is expected in a democracy but would not deter him from taking what he described as necessary decisions for national progress. The delegation was led by Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodimma.
Tinubu told his guests that his long political journey had prepared him for the current challenges, noting that attempts to intimidate or discourage him would not succeed. He stressed that Nigeria’s development depends on the commitment of its citizens and leadership to stay the course despite difficulties.
“They want to scare me off? It’s a lie. I’ve been through this path before,” the president said, adding that he would continue to serve the country with determination.
He emphasised that meaningful development requires innovative thinking rather than reliance on past practices, urging Nigerians to support bold reforms designed to transform the economy.
Addressing concerns about the current economic situation, Tinubu said he has taken full responsibility for ongoing reforms. He described the late former president, Muhammadu Buhari, as a partner in governance, suggesting continuity between the past and present administrations.
“I didn’t have to look back on the economy because the truth is, I took over from myself,” he said, while acknowledging that correcting long-standing structural issues would take time and effort.
The president admitted that the reform process may be challenging but maintained that the long-term benefits would outweigh the present hardships. He also used a metaphor to stress that critics who fail to see the administration’s progress would eventually come to understand it.
According to Tinubu, his government is working to dismantle entrenched political and economic systems that have hindered national growth, replacing them with policies aimed at improving productivity and prosperity.
He urged members of the Renewed Hope Ambassadors to deepen engagement at the grassroots level, describing them as key drivers in mobilising public support for government policies.
Tinubu further reassured Nigerians of his administration’s commitment to democratic principles, including respect for the rule of law and the independence of the judiciary, noting that court decisions must be upheld regardless of political interests.
He called for unity across political divides, stressing that national development can only be achieved through a shared vision focused on improving the lives of citizens.
The president also reiterated plans to promote inclusive growth, expand opportunities for young people, and ensure that all Nigerians benefit from government policies, while cautioning against misinformation from opposition groups.
The meeting was attended by Vice-President Kashim Shettima and several political leaders, including governors and former office holders, reflecting broad participation within the ruling party.
