President Bola Ahmed Tinubu acknowledges the hardships resulting from the removal of fuel subsidy and emphasizes that this decision was made in the best interest of the country, with a focus on ensuring future prosperity.
During a meeting with 18 governors from the Class of 1999 at the Presidential Villa, Tinubu appeals for patience from Nigerians and assures them that a comprehensive framework for palliatives to mitigate the effects of fuel subsidy removal is being developed.
Tinubu reiterates the government’s commitment to expediting the process and implementing a foolproof social security structure, particularly in cash-transfer programs, to safeguard against compromise.
Recognizing the current suffering experienced by the people, he draws a parallel between the pains of childbirth and the relief that follows, asserting that Nigeria is undergoing a rebirth through fuel subsidy removal, benefiting the majority over a few smugglers.
He urges the governors to convey the message of patience to the people, emphasizing that the palliatives are forthcoming and will ultimately lead to the prosperity of the country.
In line with this commitment, Tinubu has written to the House of Representatives, requesting an amendment to the 2023 supplementary appropriation act to allocate N500 billion for the provision of palliatives.
The purpose of this request is to enable the government to offer support to Nigerians and alleviate the impact of fuel subsidy removal.
Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, read the president’s letter during the plenary session on Wednesday, highlighting the necessity of this step to address the concerns of the population.
