President Bola Tinubu has told newly sworn in ministers not to worry about criticism but to focus on their duties and remain resilient.
The advice came at the swearing-in ceremony, which took place at the Presidential Villa, Abuja on Monday.
President Tinubu expressed gratitude to the National Assembly for their swift review and approval of the new ministers.
He congratulated the appointees for their willingness to serve at a time when the nation is navigating complex issues.
“The present situation calls for serious commitment,” he stated, emphasizing the importance of their roles.
Tinubu acknowledged the dedication required to take on public service responsibilities, especially in such challenging times.
ALSO READ: Troops arrest 24 oil thieves in Niger Delta
“It is not easy to find individuals willing to surrender their lives and freedoms to serve the nation,” he noted, commending the ministers for stepping up to join a committed team that has been working diligently for the past 17 months.
Highlighting the current economic climate, the President assured the ministers that economic recovery is on the horizon.
He remarked on the challenges faced, including a rising cost of living, while emphasizing recent efforts to ensure the payment of a new minimum wage.
“We have managed to reduce the proportion of revenue used to service debt from 97% to 65%,” he reported, underscoring the government’s commitment to meeting its financial obligations without default.
Addressing the issue of global economic challenges, Tinubu pointed out that many countries are grappling with similar issues, including rising crime rates and economic downturns.
He reassured the new ministers that despite these obstacles, the administration is navigating through difficulties with determination.
Importantly, Tinubu encouraged the new ministers to expect criticism and challenges ahead. “You will be part of criticism and abuse.
Don’t worry, stay focused, stay resilient,” he advised.
He expressed confidence that their efforts would contribute to Nigeria’s growth and prosperity, stating, “Your thanks will come with the history of growth for this country.”
The President reaffirmed his commitment to tackling corruption and resource mismanagement, stating, “We have taken the bull by the horns.
“We are going to stop the profiteers and smugglers of our resources.”
He expressed pride in leading the new team, emphasizing that they will work together towards a brighter future.
“Welcome aboard. This ship will not sink,” Tinubu concluded, invoking a sense of unity and purpose among the new ministers.
President Tinubu affirmed that his administration has stopped those who scavenged on the resources of the country.
“We have taken the bull by the horn. We have stopped the scavengers. We are going to stop completely the profiteers and smugglers of our resources across the country.
“We are not going to run away from our responsibility. We are going to face it and we have been facing it head on,” he stated.
Tinubu said Nigeria’s debt service-to-revenue ratio dropped from around 97 per cent when he assumed office 17 months ago to 65 percent, noting that his administration has managed to keep the country afloat despite meeting an economy which was on the edge of bankruptcy.
He said, “For us it was a challenge when the nation was servicing its debt with 97 percent of its revenue. It’s nothing but end of the cliff.
“But today, I can report to you that we brought that one down and it is at to 65 per cent and we have never defaulted in paying or meeting all obligations, both foreign and domestic.
“We have our head above the water. All other countries too around us and across the world are facing challenges.”
The new ministers sworn in are Idi Maiha, Minister of Livestock Development; Yusuf Ata, State, Housing and Urban Development; Dr Suwaiba Ahmad, State, Education; Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, State, Foreign Affairs; Dr Jumoke Oduwole, Industry, Trade and Investment; Dr Nentawe Yilwatda, Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction and Muhammadu Dingyadi, Minister of Labour & Employment.
NIGERIAN TRIBUNE