Tinubu’s Reforms Saved Nigeria From Deeper Economic Crisis – Shettima

Vice President Kashim Shettima has said President Bola Tinubu’s economic reforms have prevented Nigeria from falling into a more severe economic crisis, arguing that delaying critical decisions would have worsened the country’s challenges.

Shettima made the statement on Monday while addressing leaders and members of the City Boy Movement at the State House Conference Hall in Abuja.

The vice president acknowledged the economic hardship Nigerians have experienced since the implementation of the reforms, stressing that the government must ensure that citizens’ sacrifices lead to better living conditions, improved livelihoods and greater economic opportunities.

He said the Tinubu administration had shown the political courage to tackle longstanding structural problems instead of postponing difficult decisions for future governments.

According to Shettima, the administration’s willingness to implement necessary reforms distinguishes it from previous governments that failed to address some of the country’s fundamental economic challenges.

“What distinguishes this administration from its predecessors is our refusal to pay lip service to the structural reforms Nigeria needs,” he said.

Shettima credited Tinubu with taking bold steps to prevent the country from sliding into a deeper economic crisis, describing the president as a determined leader committed to Nigeria’s renewal.

He maintained that postponing necessary economic reforms would have made the situation more difficult to manage.

However, the vice president admitted that the policies have placed significant pressure on households and businesses, noting that the government must demonstrate that the sacrifices made by Nigerians are producing meaningful results.

“We recognise the pressures Nigerians have endured, and our obligation is to ensure that their sacrifices yield better livelihoods,” Shettima said.

He added that the administration must remain open to public concerns, address policies that are not working as intended and measure its performance by the daily experiences of ordinary Nigerians.

The vice president also praised Tinubu’s approach to political leadership, saying his ability to accommodate different interests has strengthened cooperation within the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Shettima explained that effective governance requires not only the development of policies but also the ability to manage people, resolve disagreements and bring different groups together.

He said Tinubu had demonstrated an understanding of political inclusion by listening to opposing views, recognising talents outside his immediate circle and creating opportunities for different interests to work towards common goals.

According to him, the APC has benefited from this approach, which he described as a model for building cooperation among diverse political groups.

Shettima also commended members of the City Boy Movement for their role in communicating government policies to Nigerians, countering misinformation and encouraging political discussions based on issues rather than personal attacks.

He said the movement had helped explain government decisions to communities that might not otherwise have access to official statements, making it easier for citizens to understand the administration’s policies.

The vice president added that the group’s activities had contributed to narrowing the gap between the government and the people by providing explanations for difficult policy decisions.

Shettima further described Tinubu as a leader whose development plans extend beyond his administration’s tenure, arguing that the president considers the long-term needs of future generations.

He cited Tinubu’s support for the development of reclaimed land along the Atlantic coastline as an example of his commitment to projects intended to create opportunities for future industries and economic growth.

According to Shettima, the president’s vision includes planning for citizens yet to be born, businesses that have not been established and economic opportunities that may take years to materialise.

He said such long-term planning was necessary to build a stronger economy and create lasting opportunities for Nigerians.

The vice president also emphasised the importance of young people’s participation in politics and governance, describing their involvement as essential to the future of Nigeria’s democracy.

He said the commitment of young Nigerians to political engagement gave the administration confidence that the next generation would be prepared to assume greater responsibilities in public service.

Shettima, however, stressed that the government must justify the confidence placed in it by providing honest leadership and creating an environment where young people can develop their talents and achieve their ambitions.

He urged members of the City Boy Movement to maintain their support for national unity and responsible political participation.

The vice president also thanked the group for its continued support for the Tinubu administration, encouraging its members to remain engaged in efforts to communicate government policies and promote national development.

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