Tinubu Assures Class ’99 Governors That Subsidy Palliatives Will Caution Hardships in Nigeria
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu Wednesday 12th July, 2023 in Abuja assured Nigerians that the framework for palliatives to remedy the effects of fuel subsidy removal was being worked out. He assured that the decision was in the best interest of the country, especially in guaranteeing future prosperity.
President Tinubu made the promise as he hosted 18 governors who served as governors in Nigeria from 1999, tagged class ’99, at the Presidential Villa. He appealed for more patience from Nigerians and said the government will increase effort, speed up the process and ensure a full-proof social security structure that will not be compromised, especially in cash-transfer. A press statement by Dele Alake, Special Adviser to the President on Special Duties, Communication, and Strategy quoted the president where he said:
“I understand that our people are suffering yet there can be no childbirth without pain. The joy of childbirth is the relief that comes after the pain. Nigeria is reborn already with fuel subsidy removal. It is a rebirth of the country for the largest number over a few smugglers. Please tell the people to be a little patient. The palliative is coming. I don’t want cash-transfer to fall into wrong hands. I know it pinches and it is difficult. In the end, we will rejoice in the prosperity of our country.
“We served as governors and sat in this Council Chamber. All I wanted was democracy and the salvation of the country. I never thought I was going to be here as President, but God Almighty has brought me.” President Tinubu was quoted.
Mr. President also assured the governors and Nigerians that he will work towards “unity, equity, stability, and prosperity of the country. My commitment to that democratic value is unwavering. I am overwhelmed and honored by the numbers of you here,” he said, “I have an open door policy. You are my advisers. We went into the pond and wrestled with a pig. We got dirty, and cleaned up. That is why I am here today.”
President Tinubu also highlighted the issue of power supply where he maintained that to make meaningful progress without fixing electricity, assuring that his administration will harness gas resources, and explore every opportunity to ensure stable power generation and supply.
The former governors led by the class Chairman, former Edo Governor, Lucky Igbinedion urged the President Tinubu to pursue his vision for a greater Nigeria with vigour, steadfastness and resilience as the group pledged its support. The statement said: “We are here with you. We are your foot soldiers, and you can tap into our experience. You are a person who believes in Nigeria. With your good leadership, Nigeria will take its place.”
The 19 members of the class at the meeting included President Tinubu, who was former Governor of Lagos State, Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), George Akume, former Governor of Benue State, Niyi Adebayo, Ekiti State, Sen. Orji Uzo Kalu, Abia State, Sen. Sam Egwu, Ebonyi State, Adamu Muazu, Bauchi State, Donald Duke, Cross River State, James Ibori, Delta State, Obong Victor Attah, Akwa Ibom State, Chimaroke Nnamani, Enugu State, Saminu Turaki, Jigawa State, Sen. Aleiro Adamu, Kebbi State, Olusegun Osoba, Ogun State, Adebisi Akande, Osun State, Sen. Joshua Dariye, Plateau State, Attahiru Bafarawa, Sokoto State, Ahmad Sani Yarima, Zamfara State and Rev. Jolly Nyame, Taraba State. 10 of the class members have passed on.
