By Ogochukwu Isioma
President Bola Tinubu, on Monday, June 12, said he feels the pains Nigerians are going through as a result of the removal of subsidy on petrol by his administration.
Tinubu, in a nationwide broadcast to commemorate democracy day, however, said the decision was for Nigeria’s survival even as he admitted that the development would impose extra burden on the citizens.
The president noted that the need for Nigeria to bid farewell to poverty necessitated the removal of fuel subsidy during his inaugural address to the nation on May 29.
He assured Nigerians that their sacrifices shall not be in vain, even as he said his government will repay the citizens through massive investment in transportation infrastructure, education, regular power supply, healthcare, amongst others.
Tinubu said: “It is for this reason that, in my inauguration address on May 29, I gave effect to the decision taken by my predecessor-in-office to remove the fuel subsidy albatross and free up for collective use the much-needed resources, which had hitherto being pocketed by a few rich.
“I admit that the decision will impose extra burden on the masses of our people. I feel your pain. This is one decision we must bear to save our country from going under and take our resources away from the stranglehold of a few unpatriotic elements.
“Painfully, I have asked you, my compatriots, to sacrifice a little more for the survival of our country. For your trust and belief in us, I assure you that your sacrifice shall not be in vain.
“The government I lead will repay you through massive investment in transportation infrastructure, education, regular power supply, healthcare and other public utilities that will improve the quality of lives.”