President Bola Tinubu has appealed to Nigerians to ignore side distractions that are capable of undermining the nation’s growth and development.
He noted that while the nation continues to stay on the right course to prosperity, some persons “still see things through the prisms of politics, ethnicity, region and religion.”
This is contained in the president’s nationwide address in his New Year message on Wednesday.
He urged the citizens to be patriotic in their dealings as he called for a better national allegiance.
“We are on the right path to building a great Nigeria that will work for everyone. Let us not get distracted by a tiny segment of our population that still sees things through the prisms of politics, ethnicity, region and religion.
“To achieve our national goals and objectives, we must become better citizens and uncompromising in our devotion and allegiance to Nigeria,” Tinubu said.
The President also stressed his administration’s commitment to facilitate significant economic reforms for sustainable growth.
“On a personal note, thank you for placing your confidence in me as your president. Your trust humbles me, and I promise to continue serving you diligently and wholeheartedly.
“We will continue to embark on necessary reforms to foster sustainable growth and prosperity for our nation.
“I seek your cooperation and collaboration at all times as we pursue our goal of a one trillion-dollar economy. Let us stay focused and united.
“As far-reaching and foundational as our reforms are, they can produce the desired outcomes only through shared common values and identities, and unconditional love for our country,” the president urged.
Tinubu also assured Nigerians of his resolve to boost food production and reduce inflation on food and drugs to 15 per cent, while strengthening the economy in 2025.
He highlighted economic growth indicators, including lower fuel prices, rising foreign reserves and a stronger Naira, as signs of progress in 2024 that would continue into the new year.