President Bola Tinubu issued a stern warning to ethnic agitators on Wednesday, asserting that those who attempt to threaten Nigeria’s sovereignty will face severe consequences. The President reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to fostering economic security and addressing foundational challenges while ensuring equitable opportunities for all Nigerians.
Addressing leaders of Afenifere, a respected Yoruba Socio-Cultural Organization, at the State House in Abuja, President Tinubu underscored the importance of securing Nigeria’s economic stability as a prerequisite for achieving broader objectives. He emphasized the need to re-engineer Nigeria’s finances, boost citizens’ purchasing power, and spread prosperity across all sectors.
“We are committed to the economic survival of our country,” President Tinubu declared. “To re-engineer the finances of our country, we must start in earnest. So first, retool, revamp the economic opportunities available, and resolve to continue taking the firm and steady baby steps that are necessary.”
The President highlighted education as a potent weapon against poverty and outlined initiatives aimed at empowering youths and addressing unemployment. He emphasized the importance of investing in the future generation through programs like the National Student Loan Programme and exploring measures to bolster social security and consumer credit schemes.
Turning to the issue of security, President Tinubu issued a stern warning to those challenging Nigeria’s sovereignty, particularly in the wake of recent agitation for the Yoruba nation. He emphasized his irrevocable commitment to Nigeria’s unity and constitutional democracy, stressing the need to combat terrorism, banditry, and kidnapping effectively.
“We have degraded terrorism to a level that they cannot threaten the sovereignty of Nigeria any longer,” President Tinubu asserted. “Banditry and kidnapping will be defeated, and there is no payment of ransom whatsoever. Those who think they can threaten the sovereignty of Nigeria will have themselves to blame. They have a price to pay, and we are not going to relent.”
Expressing gratitude to the delegation for their support, President Tinubu reiterated his determination to advance Nigeria’s interests and promote unity amidst diversity. His remarks were met with commendation from His Royal Majesty, Oba Olu Falae, who praised the President’s leadership and urged him to continue advocating for fairness, equity, and constitutional amendments to devolve more powers to the states.
As the meeting concluded, the delegation, led by Pa Reuben Fasoranti and Oba Falae, pledged continued support for President Tinubu’s leadership, affirming their commitment to standing by him in the pursuit of a better Nigeria.
President Tinubu’s warning to ethnic agitators and his commitment to securing Nigeria’s sovereignty reflect the ongoing challenges facing the nation and the government’s resolve to address them decisively.