By Muhyideen Jimoh
President Bola Tinubu says Nigeria has recovered from the brink of bankruptcy, with the economy stabilised and security efforts gaining momentum under his administration.
The President spoke on Tuesday while receiving a delegation of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) at the State House, Abuja.
The delegation was led by the conference’s President and Archbishop of Kaduna, Most Rev. Matthew Ndagoso.
Responding to concerns raised by the bishops, Tinubu said his administration had made significant progress in stabilising the economy and improving citizens’ living conditions.
“I can tell you categorically, now with sincerity, that the country has been placed on sound footing. The economy has recovered.
“The alarm for bankruptcy, the dark tunnel of uncertainty that we entered into when I came in, has changed,” he said.
Tinubu said he inherited both assets and liabilities but had restored stability in spite of the economic challenges confronting the nation.
“This government has stabilised and has prosperity on the horizon. The quality of life is improving,” the president said.
He said uninterrupted academic calendars in public universities demonstrated the administration’s commitment to education and national development.
“None of your children in the university today can say a four-year course is no longer four years. They are not on strike. Is that not an answer to our prayers?” he asked.
On security, Tinubu acknowledged persistent threats but assured Nigerians that government was strengthening military capacity to combat terrorism effectively.
“I inherited the challenges. I didn’t run away. I asked for this job, and I’m in it,” he said.
The President disclosed that he had approved the expansion of the Nigerian Army, promising additional resources for equipment, barracks, stations and operations against terrorists.
“We all must fight terrorism together. We have that responsibility to our nation and to our society,” he told the bishops.
Speaking on preparations for future elections, Tinubu maintained that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) remained impartial.
He said: “The opportunities are equal. INEC is neutral. They have never intimidated anyone.
“If political opponents are crying wolf, maybe they are afraid of their own shadows and uncertainty in the companies they keep, not me.”
Tinubu also defended the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND), describing it as a transformative initiative widening access to higher education.
“NELFUND is doing wonders to our children. They are even earning stipends while they are in the universities,” he said.
Responding to calls for the return of mission schools, the President said responsibility rested with state governments under the constitution.
“The schools are in the states. Preach to the governors of your states. There is no need for constitutional amendment for that,” he said.
Tinubu reaffirmed that education remained the most effective weapon against poverty and ignorance while stressing that Nigeria’s diversity should remain a source of strength.
“I won’t deviate from our national identity. Diversity is the backbone of our prosperity and the future stability of this country,” he said.
Earlier, Ndagoso urged the Federal Government to ensure free, fair and credible elections in 2027, intensify efforts against insecurity and kidnappings, and implement policies that improve citizens’ welfare. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Kamal Tayo Oropo