Dr Emmanuel Simon, the National Patron of Religious Affairs of the Relax, Tinubu Is Fixing Nigeria (RTIFN), has expressed support for President Bola Tinubu's economic reforms, describing them as tough but necessary for Nigeria's economic recovery. In a message to mark Nigeria's 66th Independence anniversary, Simon urged Nigerians to remain hopeful about the country's economic prospects. He emphasized the importance of reflecting on the nation's founding fathers' sacrifices and renewing commitment to national unity, peace, patriotism, and development.
Simon acknowledged that Nigeria, at 66, has faced significant economic challenges, insecurity, and moments of uncertainty. However, he expressed optimism that the country is on the path of recovery. According to him, the anniversary is not just a date but a celebration of a covenant of freedom, unity, and hope that has endured despite the nation's many trials. Simon called on Nigerians to relax and have faith in President Tinubu's ability to fix the country.
The RTIFN patron recognized the hardship associated with some of the Federal Government's economic policies, including fuel subsidy removal, exchange rate unification, and investments in agriculture and security. He described these measures as necessary surgeries to address longstanding structural problems and save a "bleeding nation." Simon cited the Renewed Hope infrastructure drive, students' loan scheme, local government autonomy, and investments in agriculture and security as key initiatives aimed at laying the foundation for a new Nigeria.
Simon urged Nigerians to give the reform process time and called on the government to ensure that the benefits of its policies eventually reach ordinary citizens. He emphasized the importance of patience and support for the administration, saying that rebuilding takes time. The cleric also called for greater cooperation among Nigeria's religious communities, stressing that religious leaders have a crucial role to play in promoting peace and national cohesion.
According to Simon, Nigeria must move beyond religious tolerance to genuine religious harmony, with religious leaders using their pulpits and prayer grounds to promote peace, hard work, patriotism, and national rebirth. He urged Christians, Muslims, and other Nigerians to complement their prayers with practical efforts towards improving the country. Simon emphasized that our prayers for Nigeria must be accompanied by positive actions for Nigeria.
The cleric further urged religious leaders to discourage messages capable of fuelling hatred and division, particularly as the country confronts security and economic challenges. He called on members of RTIFN across the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory to use the Independence anniversary to organise interfaith prayers and community engagements focused on peace and national development.
Simon's message comes at a time when Nigerians are grappling with the impact of various economic reforms implemented by the Tinubu administration. While some have expressed concerns about the policies' effects on the general population, others have welcomed the moves as necessary steps towards addressing the country's long-term challenges. As Nigeria continues to navigate its economic and security challenges, Simon's call for patience, support, and collective action towards national development is likely to resonate with many citizens.
Key points
- Dr Emmanuel Simon describes President Bola Tinubu's economic reforms as tough but necessary for Nigeria's recovery.
- Simon urges Nigerians to remain hopeful about the country's economic prospects despite current challenges.
- The RTIFN patron calls for greater cooperation among Nigeria's religious communities to promote peace and national cohesion.
