President Bola Tinubu has disclosed that he nearly abandoned his 2023 presidential ambition due to overwhelming challenges.
Speaking during a special Iftar at the Presidential Villa, he recounted a moment of doubt during his campaign, triggered by a conversation with a relative who questioned his chances of winning.
According to Tinubu, the relative visited him in the early hours of the morning, lamenting the hardship caused by the naira redesign policy.
He claimed that even their wealthy uncle struggled to access ₦10,000 in cash and questioned why Tinubu was still determined to contest. Despite this discouragement, the President said he remained resolute in his ambition.
Tinubu later discovered that the messenger had withheld most of the money meant for their uncle, a revelation that left him momentarily disheartened.
However, encouragement from key allies, including former Katsina State Governor Aminu Masari, reignited his determination to push forward in the race.
Reflecting on his time in office, the President highlighted the difficult decisions he had to make, including the immediate removal of fuel subsidies on his inauguration day.
He described leadership as the ability to act decisively, even in the face of criticism, and emphasized that his choices were made in the best interest of the nation’s future.
Vice President Kashim Shettima commended Tinubu’s leadership, noting that he had taken bold steps where previous administrations had hesitated.
He praised the President’s efforts in addressing economic challenges such as fuel subsidy fraud, forex instability, and the need for local government autonomy.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio also lauded Tinubu’s governance style, describing him as a visionary leader unafraid to take risks.
He noted that under Tinubu’s administration, governors were receiving higher allocations, which had strengthened state economies.
Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, highlighted Tinubu’s role in mentoring leaders across different regions and promoting national unity.
Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma echoed similar sentiments, commending the President’s courage in making decisions that averted an economic downturn.
Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, shared his personal experience of being appointed despite his past activism.
He recalled a World Bank official describing Tinubu as one of Africa’s most reform-driven leaders, further affirming his impact on governance.
Tinubu’s longtime friend, Prof. Shaffideen Amuwo, reflected on their shared history, describing the President’s journey to leadership as a result of divine intervention.
He expressed optimism about Tinubu’s tenure and prayed for wisdom as he continues to steer the nation toward progress.
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