President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has revealed that the increase in petrol prices led his friend to abandon five Rolls-Royce cars in favour of a Honda Accord.
Speaking during his first media chat as president on Monday, Tinubu reflected on the implications of the petrol subsidy removal, which he announced during his inaugural address on May 29, 2023. The policy has caused the price of petrol to rise from approximately ₦200 to over ₦900 per litre nationwide.
Sharing an anecdote to illustrate the changes, Tinubu said:
“People are learning management. A friend used to boast about owning five Rolls-Royces. Recently, I saw him driving a Honda Accord. He told me, ‘You’ve put me here.’ I replied, ‘I didn’t put you there.’
“He explained that due to fuel prices, maintaining five limousine-style cars was no longer feasible. But I believe learning to manage is not a negative thing. Switch off the lights to lower your electricity bill. Let us all learn to manage.”
Tinubu also addressed criticisms over his appointment of 48 ministers, the largest cabinet since Nigeria returned to civilian rule in 1999. Despite public concern, the president stated he had no intention of downsizing.
“People are learning management,” Tinubu reiterated, underscoring his broader message of prudence and resourcefulness amidst economic challenges.
