Tough decisions prevented Nigeria from fiscal collapse — Tinubu

….assures Nigerians sacrifices were not in vain

President Bola Tinubu says his administration’s tough economic reforms were necessary to prevent Nigeria from sliding into fiscal collapse, worsening poverty, and deeper economic uncertainty.

Speaking during his nationwide broadcast to mark the third anniversary of his administration on Friday, Tinubu defended the tough policy decisions taken since assuming office in 2023, including the removal of fuel subsidies and foreign exchange reforms.

According to the President, the economic situation inherited by his administration demanded “urgent and courageous action” to stabilise the country and avert a national crisis.

“The easy choices would have been politically convenient. But leadership demands courage, especially when the right decisions are difficult,” Tinubu said.

He stated that refusing to implement the reforms would have pushed Nigeria toward fiscal breakdown and prolonged economic instability.

“Together, we chose reform over ruin and decisiveness over hesitation. We chose long-term national recovery over short-term comfort,” the President added.

Tinubu acknowledged that the policies came with painful consequences for many Nigerians, as rising living costs placed pressure on households, workers, and businesses across the country.

He also noted that many young Nigerians searching for jobs became discouraged during the difficult economic period, while others questioned whether the sacrifices demanded by the reforms would eventually produce meaningful results.