Critics Will Keep Talking, But We Are Delivering Results, Says Tinubu

President Bola Tinubu has assured Nigerians that his administration remains committed to national progress, despite ongoing criticisms from opposition voices.

Addressing members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) National Caucus at the State House Conference Center in Abuja on Tuesday night, the President emphasized that his government is focused on delivering tangible results rather than getting distracted by political opposition.

“Our determination to deliver is unshaken despite the cacophony of misguided, unfounded, and gloomy claims made by our detractors. They will continue to talk, but we are extremely focused,” Tinubu said.

He acknowledged the challenges posed by certain economic policies, such as the removal of fuel subsidies, but insisted these reforms were crucial for stabilizing the nation’s economy. Tinubu argued that Nigeria would not have been able to survive under the previous subsidy regime, adding that state governments now receive increased allocations, allowing them to carry out development projects more effectively.

“It is a daunting challenge. The policies are difficult, but there was no way Nigeria would have survived with the burden of fuel subsidies,” he stated. “Today, I can confidently say that each governor here knows that their allocations to the states have tripled. We have enough funding for the local governments.”

The President also highlighted recent improvements in security, particularly in Zamfara State, where banditry had long been a major issue. Citing testimonies from former Governor Abdulaziz Yari, Tinubu expressed optimism that Nigeria is on the path to greater stability.

“The sunny side of this country is on the horizon. Things are getting better. The days of gloom are gone,” he asserted. “People are now farming and trading safely. Food sovereignty is what we must achieve—not just food security, but sovereignty.”

Reaffirming his commitment to the APC’s Renewed Hope agenda, Tinubu urged party members to remain patient and steadfast, acknowledging that transitioning from the previous administration—one in which he played a significant role—required careful planning to ensure continuity and stability.

“The caucus should bear with me if I have not met all expectations. It is not easy when you are taking over from a previous administration that was anchored by you. You don’t scatter the stable; you move on gradually,” he explained.

Tinubu thanked APC leaders for their continued support and dedication to national progress, noting, “You have supported the party, you are supporting your country, and for that, I thank you.”

As his administration continues with economic and security reforms, Tinubu reaffirmed that his government’s actions would speak louder than the words of critics. “We are delivering results, and that is what matters,” he concluded.

He expressed confidence in the party’s leadership to guide Nigeria’s future, build the nation, and contribute significantly to Africa’s growth.

The President emphasized that his administration’s strategic positioning requires building on recorded successes and projecting a forward-thinking agenda that resonates with the hopes and aspirations of Nigerians.

“We can steer the future of this country and make a difference. I like what is happening around the world. If anything, it is teaching us a lesson that Nigerians, as the great African country, can build ourselves and help Africa grow,” he added.

Tinubu also stressed the importance of achieving food sovereignty, not just food security, to better position Nigeria as a nation with the capacity to reposition the continent.

“For me, there is a very sunny part of Nigeria that I am seeing right now, and I am very happy that one of the most challenged individuals in terms of security, Abdulaziz Yari, has given a testimony,” Tinubu said.

“It speaks volumes to many of us, but to hear a testimony that the security of life and property is improving in Zamfara, I can see people from Birni Gwari on TV farming and reaping the rewards.”

“I am a very happy man. The sunny side of this country is on the horizon, things are getting better, the days of gloom are gone. We are looking at the brighter, sunnier side of our country and our people,” he concluded.

The APC National Caucus meeting is a key strategic gathering of the party’s top leadership, including the President, Vice President, National Chairman, state governors, former governors, ministers, and National Assembly officers. It serves as a crucial platform for discussing the party’s internal affairs, policy direction, and national issues ahead of the National Executive Council (NEC) meeting, scheduled for Wednesday, February 26, 2025.