President Bola Tinubu on Tuesday announced that Nigeria’s challenging phase of economic reforms has ended.
He stated that the sacrifices Nigerians have made over the last three years have resulted in a more stable economy, positioning the country as a preferred destination for investors.
In his Eid-el-Kabir message to Muslim faithful in Nigeria and around the world, Tinubu connected the spirit of sacrifice associated with Sallah to the economic difficulties Nigerians have faced under his administration’s reform agenda.
He said the reforms are beginning to produce positive outcomes, while also admitting that terrorists and bandits are still carrying out attacks in some communities, assuring Nigerians that they would eventually be defeated.
“Just as sacrifice brings reward, I am happy that the sacrifices and efforts we have made over the past three years have yielded a more stable economy, making our country a preferred investment destination that will drive job creation and economic growth.
“The walk through the dark tunnel is over, and the light is here,” Tinubu stated.
He expressed confidence that the reforms would continue to bring better security and increased opportunities for citizens.
The President said, “By the Grace of God, the reforms we have diligently pursued will continue to yield improved security and greater opportunities for all.”
Speaking on security, Tinubu admitted that insecurity remains in certain parts of the country despite major operational achievements, including the recent joint Nigeria-US operation that eliminated ISIS senior leader Abu-Bilal al-Manuki in the Lake Chad Basin.
“I am aware that, despite the best efforts of our security and intelligence agencies, including the recent elimination of a wanted ISIS leader, heartless terrorists and bandits still attack some communities.
“I assure you: you are neither abandoned nor forgotten. We will ultimately defeat all the forces of evil,” the President said.
He also urged religious and community leaders to pray for peace, support the nation’s leadership, and show kindness to the less privileged during the festivities.
He appealed, “To our Muslim faithful, I urge you to use this sacred occasion to pray for our country, for peace in our communities, and for wisdom for those in leadership.
“Let us pray that those who commit crimes among us may rethink and abandon their evil ways, or face the full weight of the law.”
Referring to the spiritual meaning of the celebration, Tinubu described the Festival of Sacrifice as an encouragement for all Nigerians, regardless of religion, to practice selflessness, unity, and compassion.
According to him, “Eid-el-Kabir reminds us of the enduring virtues exemplified by Prophet Ibrahim, faith, obedience, and the willingness to sacrifice for a higher purpose.
“This sacred festival calls on all Muslims, and indeed all Nigerians and the whole of humanity, to embrace sacrifice, selflessness, unity, and compassion.”
He added that his administration remains focused on investing in security, infrastructure, agriculture, and human capital development to achieve what he called the nation’s great promise.
