President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has called on Nigerians to endure the current economic challenges, describing them as “unintentional hardship” caused by necessary reforms. Speaking during the 48th convocation ceremony of Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife, Osun State, Tinubu reassured citizens that better days lie ahead.
“I am not unaware of the harsh economic situation of our country, nor do I take pleasure in inflicting pain and anguish on my compatriots,” President Tinubu said in a message delivered by the Special Adviser on Economy, Office of the Vice President, Tope Fasua.
He explained that the government inherited both the “assets and liabilities” of previous administrations and is working to correct past mistakes for the greater good of the nation. “We were faced with the stark reality of the results of some policies hitherto executed by past administrations, but which had no direct positive impact on the generality of our people,” he said.
The President emphasized that the government’s reform policies aim to make Nigeria a better place for everyone, but he acknowledged that the adjustments come with temporary difficulties. “As we are trying to fix, reconfigure, and correct past mistakes and errors, we implore all Nigerians to cooperate with us, endure this unintentional hardship so that, like the graduates of today, we all can celebrate and be celebrated at the end of the day,” he added.
Tinubu expressed optimism, saying, “I am certainly seeing the light at the end of our tunnel.”
The Chancellor of OAU, Etsu Nupe, Alhaji Yahaya Abubakar, highlighted the importance of education as the foundation for national progress. He stressed that investing in education would propel Nigeria to compete successfully on the global stage.
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Similarly, the Pro-Chancellor, Professor Siyan Oyeweso, urged the 977 postgraduate students graduating from the institution to use their knowledge to build a nation filled with opportunities for future generations.
A significant highlight of the convocation ceremony was the conferment of honorary doctorate degrees on distinguished individuals. Among the honorees were First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu, MTN Nigeria CEO Karl Toriola, Dr. Akin Ogunbiyi, Professor Anthony Adegbulugbe, and Daere Afonya-A Akobo.
This recognition celebrated their contributions to national development in various fields.
President Tinubu’s message at the event reflected his administration’s commitment to implementing reforms that would transform Nigeria’s economy. While acknowledging the sacrifices required from citizens, he reassured them of a brighter future.
“For a nation to grow and prosper, we must sometimes endure temporary difficulties in the pursuit of long-term benefits,” he said.