Tinubu Blames Predecessors for Nigeria’s Challenges at APC NEC Meeting

President Bola Tinubu has attributed Nigeria’s current economic and governance challenges to poor planning and policy failures by previous administrations.

Speaking at the Presidential Villa on Tuesday while receiving an Enugu State APC delegation led by Governor Peter Mbah, Tinubu said past leaders financed long-term projects with short-term funding.

“What has been the problem in the past is Nigeria trying to finance long-term projects with short-term funding. We have not embarked upon serious long-term outlook for our country,” he said.

Pushback on Critics

Tinubu expressed frustration that architects of the policies he inherited are now among the loudest critics of his reform agenda.

“We had leaders who privatised electricity that is not working. They gave us darkness instead, and we are trying to get ourselves through that to build a nation of pride, hope, and joy,” he said.

He advised Governor Mbah to develop thick skin against political hostility, saying democracy would survive despite intimidation attempts.

Enugu Support

Governor Mbah reaffirmed Enugu State’s support for Tinubu’s re-election bid in 2027, citing federal interventions including the Port Harcourt-Enugu rail line and the concessioning of Akanu Ibiam International Airport.

“This relationship has earned our trust and support. On that basis, we will stand proudly with you on election day in January 2027,” Mbah declared.

Sources: Tribune Online, The Nation, Blueprint