President Bola Tinubu has expressed his unwavering commitment to reform Nigeria, even if it results in a controversial reputation.
He made this declaration during a meeting with António Guterres, the Secretary-General of the United Nations (UN), held at the UN headquarters in New York, United States.
This was contained in a statement released by Ajuri Ngelale, the presidential spokesperson.
Tinubu emphasized his determination to safeguard and strengthen democracy in Nigeria, despite facing previous arrests in connection with his efforts, which, he affirmed, did not discourage him.
The statement reads:
“I fought for democracy and was detained for democracy. I am now President and I am determined to prove that democracy can provide the development that our nation and our continent so urgently demands”.
Tinubu further asserted that there has been an excessive emphasis on discussions rather than concrete actions to alleviate the pervasive poverty in the country.
He emphasized his resolve to make decisions that will lead to a transformation in this regard.
“Trace those of us here to our foundations and you will find that we have ties and links with poverty,” he said.
“We must not be ashamed of that history, but poverty is unacceptable. I am one of the lucky survivors of gripping poverty.
“Nigeria is truly a giant, 240 million people and counting with a massive youth population.
“We are done saying too much, we seek much action. We have arisen out of poverty as individuals, but until our people have arisen out of that, we will not rest, even if it requires decisions at home that make me temporarily unpopular.”
Secretary-General Guterres acknowledged that the president’s reforms have generated “heightened expectations” from the UN and confirmed that the global organization will continue to provide support.
“Nigeria is an indispensable voice in the sub-region. We will give you every support needed for your success to be achieved. Your success is Africa’s success and we wish you well,” the UN secretary-general added.
