Nigeria’s President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has articulated his determination to construct a society marked by fairness and equity, addressing the growing disparities within the Nigerian social fabric.
In his New Year broadcast to the nation on January 1, 2024, President Tinubu declared that his primary goal is to build a just and equitable society while narrowing the widening inequality gaps.
“Fellow Nigerians, my major ambition in government as a Senator in the aborted Third Republic, as Governor of Lagos State for eight years, and now as the President of this blessed country is to build a fair and equitable society and close the widening inequality,” President Tinubu asserted.
He emphasised that, in 2024 and beyond, his administration will strive to provide every Nigerian with equal opportunities to thrive and succeed.
Addressing the current hardships faced by citizens, President Tinubu acknowledged the frustrations within the population. He urged Nigerians to let these socio-economic challenges invigorate and renew their love and faith in the nation’s potential.
While recognising the prevailing difficulties, President Tinubu reassured the nation, saying, “Dear Compatriots, take this from me: the time may be rough and tough, however, our spirit must remain unbowed because tough times never last. We are made for this period, never to flinch, never to falter.
He called on citizens to be resolute and committed to working for the betterment of Nigeria. President Tinubu urged, “Our situation should make us resolve that this new year 2024, each and everyone of us will commit to be better citizens.”
Highlighting the role of citizens in nation-building, President Tinubu emphasised the importance of collective responsibility. He stated, “While I believe the rich should enjoy their legitimately-earned wealth, our minimum bargain must be that, any Nigerian that works hard and diligent enough will have a chance to get ahead in life. I must add that because God didn’t create us with equal talents and strengths, I can not guarantee that we will have equal outcomes when we work hard. But my government, in this new year 2024 and beyond, will work to give every Nigerian equal opportunity to strive and to thrive.”
President Tinubu affirmed his administration’s commitment to working for the peace, progress, and stability of the country. He called for unity among citizens, regardless of differences, to collectively build a better Nigeria.
In extending an olive branch to political opponents, President Tinubu urged collaboration, stating, “In this new year, let us resolve that as joint-heirs to the Nigerian Commonwealth, we will work for the peace, progress and stability of our country. I extend this call to my political opponents in the last election. Election is over. It’s time for all of us to work together for the sake of our country.”
President Tinubu concluded his address by wishing all Nigerians a happy and prosperous year 2024.
