“People will insult me but I know what it takes to build a nation” – Tinubu

President Bola Tinubu has reaffirmed his dedication to building Nigeria, expressing confidence in his ability to govern effectively despite facing criticism. During his first official visit to Enugu on Saturday, Tinubu met with stakeholders from the south-east geopolitical zone and inaugurated several projects spearheaded by Governor Peter Mbah. These initiatives include 30 smart green schools, 60 type 2 primary health centers, and the 19-kilometer Airport-New Haven–Bisalla and Okpara Square roads.

In his address, Tinubu emphasized the importance of unity and sustainable leadership. He defended the removal of the petrol subsidy as a necessary measure to protect the nation’s future and ensure economic stability for upcoming generations. “You are all members of one big, huge family called Nigeria but living in different rooms in the same house,” he stated. “This house, we must build it. Build it to satisfy our immediate need, which is not going to be enough yet but for tomorrow too. That is why the removal of the first subsidy was necessary.”

Acknowledging the potential backlash, Tinubu expressed his readiness to face opposition. “I know people will fight, grumble, and abuse me, and everything, but I asked for the job. I know what it takes. I believe in myself, and I believe I can gather a very good team and build a nation,” he affirmed.

The president also called on Nigerians to adopt a positive perspective towards the country, urging them to contribute to a national narrative of pride and progress. “It is our country. We have to work really hard for it to build a nation that we can be proud of. Change the narrative—negative comment about Nigeria. I’m not taking that. I’m very proud of Nigeria. You all should be proud of Nigeria,” Tinubu concluded.