Chief Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to addressing the challenges facing Nigeria, assuring the nation that his government will remain steadfast in its responsibilities.
Speaking at the swearing-in ceremony for seven new ministers held at the Banquet Hall of the Presidential Villa, Tinubu expressed his determination to combat those profiting illegally from Nigeria’s resources.
Following a cabinet reshuffle in October, six ministers were replaced, with seven new appointments and the reassignment of ten ministers to new roles. Among those sworn in were Dr. Nentawe Yilwatda, Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction; Muhammadu Maigari Dingyadi, Minister of Labour and Employment; and Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, Minister of State, Foreign Affairs.
Other appointments included Dr. Jumoke Oduwole as Minister of Industry, Trade, and Investment; Idi Mukhtar Maiha, Minister of Livestock Development; Yusuf Abdullahi Ata, Minister of State, Housing and Urban Development; and Dr. Suwaiba Said Ahmad, Minister of State, Education.
During his address, Tinubu acknowledged the economic challenges faced globally, noting that Nigeria has managed to reduce its debt servicing from 97 percent to 65 percent of its revenue without defaulting on domestic or foreign obligations.
He assured that economic recovery is on track, urging the new ministers to focus on growth and prosperity, stating that their efforts would be remembered as a contribution to a brighter future for the country.
Tinubu stressed that in spite of the prevailing situation, the country already has its head above the water, saying, “For us, it was a challenge when the nation was servicing its debt with 97 percent of its revenue, it’s nothing but end of the cliff, But today, I can report to you that we brought that one down and it is at to 65% and we have never defaulted in paying or meeting all obligations both foreign and domestic.
“We have our head above the water; all other countries too around us and across the world are facing challenges. In fact, there’s a lot of crime in Europe and America. What pandemic has brought to the economics of the world but we are navigating through this and we are working hard.
“You will be part of criticism and abuse. Don’t worry stay focused, stay resilient. Your thanks Will come with the history of growth and prosperity for this country.
“It is my joy and honour to be part of you, to be responsible for over 200 million people in this county . We have taken the bull by the horn. We have stopped the scavengers. We are going to stop completely the profiteers and smugglers of our resources across the country. We are not going to run away from our responsibility, we are going to face it and we have been facing it head on. This ship will not sink,” he stated.
Tinubu also appreciated the ministers for agreeing to serve, especially at this challenging time, saying “you are called upon to join the team to rescue this country.
“Since 17 months, I thank many of the ministers that are present here today for their hard work that they have embarked upon tirelessly to put Nigeria on the recovery path.
“Economic recovery is on the horizon. We have a good path to realise our dreams and it is not just only for us, it is for our children and grandchildren. Despite the challenges, to face the job of re-engineering and retooling the economic path of this country,” Tinubu added.
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