In a powerful response to growing accusations of self-enrichment, President Bola Tinubu has reiterated his commitment to national service, stating unequivocally that his tenure is about working for the people, not personal gain. “I didn’t come to look for money; I came to work. I asked for the votes, and Nigerians gave them to me,” the President declared during a meeting with the Forum of Former Presiding Officers of the National Assembly, led by former Senate President Ken Nnamani.
The meeting, which was attended by 16 former legislative leaders, including past Senate Presidents, Speakers of the House of Representatives, and their deputies, saw President Tinubu passionately defending his administration's mission to improve Nigeria’s infrastructure, food and energy security, education, and long-term economic stability.
A video of the President making this bold statement has since gone viral on social media, with many Nigerians reacting to his words in light of recent allegations that he is using his office to enrich himself, his family, and his close associates. These accusations have been fueled by critics who claim that many of the President’s longstanding allies, who rallied around him during his presidential campaign, are now benefiting from his administration. However, Tinubu’s recent remarks can be seen as a direct response to these allegations, as he sought to dispel the notion that he entered office for financial gain.
It is widely known that President Tinubu was already a wealthy man before assuming office. Over the years, he has used his personal resources to support numerous individuals across the country, a gesture that has earned him immense loyalty from many of his supporters. His financial contributions to various causes and individuals in need have been instrumental in galvanizing significant backing for his presidential ambition. However, critics argue that some of his old associates are now receiving political favors and appointments, further fueling suspicions of cronyism.
In addressing these concerns, President Tinubu stressed that his administration is focused on national development and that collaboration, inclusiveness, and a commitment to improving the lives of Nigerians remain at the heart of his governance.
“We neglected our communities; we forgot even to give them a good standard of living. We forgot to educate our children. Go around and look at the dilapidated schools. The education environment must be decent enough for pupils to want to learn,” the President remarked, further emphasizing the need for significant reforms across the education sector, infrastructure, and financial regulation.
The President's message to the former presiding officers was clear: his administration is working hard to address the economic hardships facing the nation, and he called on his fellow statesmen to continue offering their support in shaping the country’s future. “We have come a long way, and I promise we must do our best,” he added, as he urged them to contribute their wealth of experience to nation-building efforts.
Senator Ken Nnamani, who spoke on behalf of the Forum, expressed the group's unwavering support for President Tinubu's efforts to tackle Nigeria's numerous challenges, including insecurity, economic decline, and infrastructure decay. He praised the President's leadership in pushing through difficult reforms, including the critical issue of local government autonomy, which has won him admiration across political lines. “What gives us more hope is the courage with which you handled the issue of local government autonomy, which has won you open admiration from friends and foes alike,” Nnamani said.
Nnamani further underscored that the Forum stands ready to support the President in ensuring national security, reviving the economy, and fostering unity among Nigerians, despite the numerous challenges the country faces. “As difficult as these problems are, we believe that with your experience, you can face the difficulties and surmount them,” he noted.
This story comes at a critical juncture in Nigeria’s political landscape, where questions of transparency and leadership have taken center stage. President Tinubu’s assertive defense of his administration's goals and his personal integrity marks a significant moment in his presidency, as he continues to navigate the challenges of governance and public perception.
This narrative is sourced from a press release signed by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Media and Strategy.
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