Details of the meeting between President Bola Tinubu, footballing legend David Alaba, a don of Geopolitics and International Business, Professor Emmanuel Iga, and other Nigerian professionals abroad have emerged.
In a statement by presidential aide, Dele Alake, on Friday, the president assured them of repositioning the education and health sectors while the ongoing reforms on the economy would be sustained and expanded to relieve the poor and vulnerable Nigerians and tackle insecurity.
“He assured them that our hope as a nation is renewed because the government will welcome future suggestions on the growth of the economy while delving into some of the short and long-term frameworks for providing growth opportunities for individuals, families and institutions,” Alake said.
The President further admitted that there are transport, electricity, infrastructural and other challenges, but the government had to let out the giant elephant of fuel subsidy without bringing down the house.
Tinubu noted that his administration would promote unity and stability for all saying: “Whether you voted for me during the election or not, I am your President. I will work on your behalf to ensure a turning point of prosperity”.
The President revealed that he was presented with the option of meeting with just a few Nigerians in France, but he preferred a larger number, pledging to be persistent, determined and focused on reforms for a better country.
Tinubu spoke further about the fuel subsidy and referred to it as a “scam” and “disincentive to growth” as it rewarded smugglers and reduced the burden of the cost of the commodity for some countries.
Prof Iga on his part, commended the president for the great steps taken in three weeks to reposition the economy.
“You have shown we have a committed and competent leader. You are the first President of Nigeria who has no godfather. You are your godfather. We are impressed with the removal of subsidies and streamlining of foreign exchange. We will wait for the palliatives,” Iga said.
