President Bola Tinubu has said that a few people cornered Nigeria’s commonwealth for 40 years and called it subsidy.
Tinubu, who described the subsidy regime as “wasteful”, said it needed to end to put the nation back on track economically.
The president spoke at the second-term inauguration of Governor Hope Uzodinma of Imo State, in Owerri, on Monday.
He said he is well-attuned to the concerns of citizens, assuring them that the challenges brought on by very essential reforms are being addressed.
Tinubu assured that his administration would give more attention to education and healthcare, as well as provide the enablements for industrialisation and investments in consonance with his vision of creating an economically stable and prosperous country.
“In the past 40 years, a few people were cornering our commonwealth, and calling it subsidy, but I call it wasteful. Right now, we are all bearing and sharing that pain. But things are looking up. Things will get better for the good of all Nigerians. With me, there is hope.
“I assure you that there will be substantial development in education for your children; priority on industrialisation; healthcare will receive more allocation and attention. We will train more health workers,” the president said.
Tinubu commended Governor Uzodinma for his stewardship in Imo State, describing him as the “real hope” of the state.
“It is a great honour for me to be here in Imo State. And to congratulate the people of Imo for being discerning and determined to vote into a second term, a very unique individual who resonates with a progressive agenda, Senator Hope Uzodinma,” he said.
The president said he is committed to building a united and secure country, noting the peace and security in the state, adding: “Before now, people were afraid of coming to Imo state, but today Imo is safe and open for business. What we have learned from this experience is the importance of unity, cooperation, and a focus on our internal security.”
He implored the governor to work even harder for the people, emphasising that hard work is the reward for a re-election.
“I assure you that your hopes are renewed. Be assured of the support of the federal government to ensure rapid development of your state,” he stated.