Tinubu Accuses Petrol Subsidy Beneficiaries, Smugglers Of Resisting His Efforts

ABUJA, FCT, NIGERIA – President Bola Tinubu has leveled accusations against those benefiting from petrol subsidies and smugglers for pushing back against his initiatives.

Speaking during a meeting with APC state Chairmen, Tinubu pledged to overcome the “agents of destabilization” who are allegedly undermining efforts to revitalize the economy.

In a statement released by the President’s Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Ajuri Ngelale, Tinubu emphasized that his administration is directing resources towards vital sectors crucial for improving the welfare of Nigerians.

He said; “As we are fighting corruption, smugglers and old subsidy beneficiaries, they most certainly will fight back. All those who falsified records and became losers with the subsidy (on petroleum products) removal, will fight back.

“But we will defend our people. The treasury belongs to the people, and that sacred trust must not be abused.”

Tinubu stressed the importance of citizens obtaining their National Identification Numbers (NIN) to facilitate planning, targeted interventions, and full participation in relief programmes.

He highlighted the necessity of educating grassroots leaders to mobilize citizens for NIN registration, especially those lacking formal education and understanding of its benefits.

“I urge the state chairmen that regardless of party affiliation, let us help citizens by mobilizing them for NIN registration. Not just PVCs. Some are poor Nigerians who have not experienced formal education and have no understanding of what NIN is and how it will benefit their lives. We must teach them. We must care for them.

“Without NIN, we cannot embark on social security interventions for the vulnerable. We will be making faulty moves without accurate data and iron-clad, digital intervention structures.

“I have established a committee of governors, and it is headed by the Vice President, Sen. Kashim Shettima. It is working on what must be done to further lift our people.

“We need to give hope, and we are giving it to the country and our citizens. We are working hard, day and night, even though some agents of destabilization are present in the polity. Nigerians, with our focused support, shall defeat them.

“The programme of our government will be truly progressive; student loans, a national consumer credit system, and social welfare for the unemployed, as well as graduates. Every Nigerian will find a place of belonging in our country.

“In the eye of even the biggest hurricane, we will find that place of tranquility and prosperous harmony for the benefit of all. Nigerians will all partake on this national journey to prosperity.”

Acknowledging resistance from corrupt elements and former subsidy beneficiaries, Tinubu reaffirmed his commitment to protecting the interests of the people and ensuring transparent governance.

Tinubu outlined his government’s comprehensive approach to addressing social welfare, including student loans, a national consumer credit system, and support for unemployed individuals and graduates.

He expressed confidence in overcoming challenges and fostering prosperity for all Nigerians.

Regarding agriculture, Tinubu unveiled plans for large-scale livestock farming and emphasized the promotion of mechanized agriculture to boost food production and economic diversification.

He underscored the government’s determination to reduce food imports and transform scarcity into abundance through effective agricultural policies.

He added; “We are bringing mechanized farming to the fore. Yesterday’s crisis will become today’s opportunity. Fertilizers are being supplied to farmers as we speak. Agriculture and economic diversification provide the answers to our problems. We will not continue to import food. We know how to turn lack into abundance, and the world will watch us do it again.”