Esteemed Fellow Citizens,
I extend warm greetings to each one of you as we step into the promising year of 2024. Let us collectively express gratitude to the Almighty for His blessings and favor upon our nation in the past year, despite its challenges. 2023 marked a significant transition, with a peaceful transfer of power, reaffirming our commitment to 24 years of uninterrupted democracy.
I am delighted to serve as your President, entrusted with a mandate to elevate our nation. Your faith in me to enhance our economy, reinforce security, invigorate industries, boost agriculture, and set us on a trajectory towards lasting national greatness is a responsibility I hold dear.
In the past seven months, my administration has made tough decisions to avert fiscal crisis. The removal of the longstanding fuel subsidy and addressing foreign exchange challenges were essential steps, albeit causing discomfort to some. I understand the concerns regarding the rising cost of living, high inflation, and underemployment.
I acknowledge the frustrations and assure you that our collective spirit must remain resilient. These challenging times are temporary, and together, we shall overcome. Our commitment to Nigeria’s promise should be unwavering, motivating us to strive for a better future. In 2024, let us resolve to be better citizens, working towards the common good.
Efforts to address security challenges are ongoing, and steps have been taken to lay the groundwork for economic recovery. Agreements, such as the one with the German Chancellor during COP28, reinforce our commitment to reliable power supply. Power projects and initiatives to boost local refining and agricultural production are underway.
In the coming year, we aim to implement fiscal and tax reforms to enhance the business environment, signaling that Nigeria is open for business. The 2024 Budget emphasizes our priorities, including national defense, job creation, economic stability, investment environment optimization, human capital development, poverty reduction, and social security.
We are dedicated to ensuring that every Nigerian feels the positive impact of governance. A new national living wage for workers will be implemented, aligning with our commitment to equitable development. Accountability is paramount, and mechanisms for evaluation and monitoring have been established to ensure efficient governance.
My overarching goal is to build a fair and equitable society, addressing the issue of widening inequality. While acknowledging individual differences, my administration pledges to provide equal opportunities for every hardworking Nigerian to thrive.
Building a prosperous nation is a collective responsibility. In this new year, let us unite for the peace, progress, and stability of our beloved country. To my political opponents, I extend an invitation to join hands for the greater good. The elections are behind us; it is time to collaborate for the well-being of Nigeria.
May the light within each of us shine brightly, guiding us towards a promising future. I wish you all a happy and prosperous 2024.
May God continue to bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR