President Bola Tinubu has justified his administration’s decision to remove the petrol subsidy, stating it was necessary to prevent Nigeria from plunging into bankruptcy and to secure the country’s future. He made this assertion during a visit to the Enugu Government House for an interactive session with South East stakeholders.

Addressing a gathering of serving and former governors, top officials, and traditional rulers, Tinubu emphasized the need to build Nigeria in a way that satisfies both immediate and long-term needs. “We cannot spend the future of generations yet unborn. Don’t bankrupt the nation before they’re born,” he said, defending his government’s tough but necessary economic reforms.

Tinubu also reaffirmed his commitment to completing the Eastern Rail Line, a critical infrastructure project linking Port Harcourt to Maiduguri. He described the rail line as essential for boosting non-oil exports and spurring economic growth, reiterating his resolve to address inherited national challenges.

During the session, Tinubu praised Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah for his development strides, including modern security measures and economic transformation initiatives. The president also commissioned several state projects, such as the GTC Smart Green School and the Command-and-Control Centre, while highlighting the importance of technology-driven development.

Tinubu further pledged federal support for the development of the gas-rich Anambra Basin, underscoring gas as a viable alternative to petrol. He committed to working with governors in the region to harness the basin’s potential for energy and industrial development.

Lauding Mbah and other governors across party lines, Tinubu said, “I don’t care about your party; you’re my friend. We are all members of one huge family called Nigeria, living in different rooms in the same house. We must build this house together to meet today’s and tomorrow’s needs.”