We Are Focused”: Tinubu Ready To Take Hard Decisions For Nigeria’s Progress  – speaks on fuel price hike

President Bola Tinubu says the increase in petrol price is a “bold and unprecedented decision” necessary for Nigeria’s growth.

Tinubu spoke on Friday at a meeting with Nigerians in Beijing, China, after wrapping up his official duties in the nation.

Tinubu, in a statement issued by presidential spokeswoman Ajuri Ngelale, stated that the petrol price increase and other measures implemented by his administration are part of a larger strategy to put Nigeria on the path to economic progress.

“Nigeria is going through reforms, and we’re making big and unusual decisions. “For example, you may have heard from home in recent days about fuel prices,” the president was quoted as saying.

“But, can we help it? Can we build good roads like you have here? You see that the quantity and quality of power remain consistent. You observe the water supply, which is steady and running. And we say we want to hand over a banner without stain to our children?

“What is the critical part to get us there if we cannot take hard decisions to pave the way for a country that is blessed and so talented?

“So many of you are so talented, speaking very fluent Mandarin. It is what you contribute and tell them at home that will reflect in the attitude of our people.

“The more you want everything free, it will become more expensive and long-delayed to achieve meaningful development.’’

On September 3, the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited increased the pump price of petrol to N855 across its retail outlets amid long queues at filling stations.

The development followed a protracted scarcity which has strained business activities nationwide.

Media reports attributed the price adjustment to a directive of the federal government asking the NNPC to sell at N1,000 but Heineken Lokpobiri, minister for petroleum resources (oil), said the ministry never gave the national oil company such a directive.

Tinubu said while it is not always easy to have a national consensus on issues, he is ready to take the hard decisions to move the nation forward.

“One economic action leads to another, and it is in your hand to build our nation. Mine is to provide the leadership, and I am committed to doing just that. We are focused, and I have a very good team,” the president said.

Tinubu added that he is committed to replicating China’s infrastructure in Nigeria.