President Bola Tinubu has stated that his government will not reinstate fuel subsidies, dismissing claims by opposition leaders that he would reverse the policy. Speaking at a rally in Jigawa State, Tinubu emphasized that Nigeria cannot afford to continue spending its future on a system that has become a national economic drain. He stressed that his administration would focus on subsidizing farming instead, aiming to boost food security and reward small-scale farmers.
Tinubu's comments come as a response to opposition claims that he would restore fuel subsidies if elected. The president described these claims as lies, stating that it would be impossible to fund such commitments. He questioned how the government would pay for these commitments, repair roads, and maintain them. Tinubu emphasized that his government would prioritize interest-free loans for small-scale farmers and install mechanized farming service centers in six geographical locations.
The president highlighted his government's plans to increase food production and reduce prices. He stated that Nigeria has the arable land, commitment, and people to feed itself and bring food prices down to a minimum. Tinubu promised to prioritize agriculture, mechanization, irrigation, and additional value for arable land. He also announced plans to involve universities in agricultural research and development more than ever before.
Tinubu's visit to Jigawa State was met with a massive turnout, which he attributed to the people's loyalty and commitment. He thanked them for their support and promised to address the problem of insecurity head-on. The president stated that he had heard the people's concerns about insecurity and promised to work with them to exchange information and report any suspicious activities immediately.
The president emphasized his government's efforts to strengthen the police and armed forces, including better salaries and housing. He described the student loan scheme, Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND), as a weapon against poverty. According to Tinubu, NELFUND aims to take away the problem of education for children from low-income families.
Tinubu expressed confidence in his government's ability to conquer insecurity and defeat enemies of unity, stability, and progress. He stated that Nigeria has been through many wars and will emerge victorious. The president emphasized his commitment to ensuring that Nigeria is safe and that its forces are well taken care of.
The rally in Jigawa State was also attended by Director-General of the All Progressives Congress Presidential Campaign Council (APC-PCC), Senator Abdul-Aziz Yari. Yari told the campaign that the massive turnout for Tinubu in the North-west state had exposed the lie in the opposition's claim that the president would not be welcomed in northern Nigeria.
Key points
- President Tinubu vows to prioritize farming subsidies over fuel subsidies to boost food security and reward small-scale farmers.
