In a resolute address delivered by Vice President Kashim Shettima on behalf of President Bola Tinubu, the Nigerian leader reiterated his administration’s unwavering commitment to eradicating poverty, terrorism, and all forms of criminality in the country. He also highlighted the implementation of various programmes and policies designed to empower Nigerians in their fight against these pressing challenges.
Creating Opportunities for Progress
President Tinubu emphasized the administration’s preference for cooperation and the establishment of bilateral and multilateral alliances to create opportunities for the Nigerian people. The government is focused on implementing programmes and policies that equip citizens to combat poverty, criminality, and terrorism effectively. This commitment is evident in the administration’s proactive response to the food security crisis sparked by the Russian-Ukrainian war, banditry attacks on farmers, natural disasters, and the aftermath of military coups. The president and his team remain vigilant in devising solutions to mitigate these impacts and enhance national security.
A New Era in National Defence and Security Strategy
Acknowledging the need to address criminal elements decisively, President Tinubu announced the commencement of a new era in Nigeria’s national defence and security strategy. This approach is centered on a firm commitment to confront significant threats and challenges faced by the country within the West African sub-region. As Chairman of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), Tinubu directed all heads of defence and security institutions to unite in efforts to protect the nation’s integrity and well-being. Furthermore, the administration is diligently working to improve regional conflict management and development mechanisms, thereby forging a path towards peace, stability, and progress across West Africa.
Fairness and Justice in Government
President Tinubu underscored the significance of justice in achieving prosperity for all Nigerians, assuring that every region will be treated equally and given a sense of belonging in the government. Whether addressing secessionist elements in the South-East, intensifying counter-insurgency efforts in the North-East, pursuing normalcy in the North-West, or resolving the farmer-herder conflicts in the North-Central, every group will receive fair treatment. Tinubu emphasized the administration’s commitment to bolstering the economy and implementing tangible measures to alleviate hardships caused by the removal of fuel subsidies and the unification of exchange rates. These measures include reducing taxes on strategic manufacturing industries, distributing grains from the national reserve to vulnerable demographics, providing fertilizer and farm inputs, and extending soft loans to small and medium-scale industries. The message is clear: the Tinubu administration stands firmly with its citizens, determined to lead the country towards accelerated economic growth and opportunities, where no one relies solely on handouts.
Unwavering Devotion and Dignity
President Tinubu expressed his pride in the devotion and dignity demonstrated by the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) and its alumni in safeguarding the nation. The passing-out parade, which marked the transition of the cadets to a more active phase of duty, symbolized the enduring commitment to patriotism and investment in human capital. It served as a poignant reminder of the importance of these ideals in shaping a prosperous and secure Nigeria.
