President Bola Tinubu has acknowledged the ongoing discussions and debates concerning the escalating cost of living, with inflation surpassing 28%, and the concerning high underemployment rate. 

In his New Year broadcast today, he revealed his awareness of the challenges faced by hardworking Nigerians striving to support themselves and their families.

“I am not oblivious to the expressed and sometimes unexpressed frustrations of my fellow citizens. I know for a fact that some of our compatriots are even asking if this is how our administration wants to renew their hope,” he added. 

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Tinubu asserted that he had sworn to serve Nigerians and dedicated himself to providing his utmost effort consistently.

“Like I said in the past, no excuse for poor performance from any of my appointees will be good enough.”

President Bola Tinubu affirmed his unwavering commitment to fairness for all Nigerians during a speech at the Ansar-Ud-Deen Central Mosque in Surulere, Lagos, on Friday. 

President Tinubu emphasised his administration’s dedication to fostering national unity while ensuring the well-being and prosperity of every citizen. 

He highlighted that the economic reforms initiated by his government aim to establish a robust foundation for current and future generations.

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Addressing the centennial anniversary of the Ansar-Ud-Deen Society of Nigeria (ADS) during Jumaat prayers, Tinubu commended the society for its impactful service to humanity, contributions to Islamic tenets, and efforts to uplift the underprivileged. 

He urged members to stay committed to advancing education and promoting moral and social development within the Muslim Ummah.

Expressing gratitude for the Ansar-Ud-Deen Society’s support during elections, President Tinubu acknowledged their role as a motivating force for his government to provide effective governance. 

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He reiterated his dedication to citizens’ welfare, citing recent initiatives such as a 50 percent reduction in inter-state land transportation fares and the settlement of N-Power beneficiaries’ backlog of allowances. 

“These actions, among other reliefs, are aimed at easing the burden on Nigerians during the festive season, with more initiatives expected in the coming year,” he said. 

President Bola Tinubu has confidently pledged to the international investment community that Nigeria will remain a premier destination for both offshore and onshore investments under his administration.

In a meeting with Total Energies Worldwide’s Group Chairman and CEO, Mr Patrick Pouyanne, President Tinubu reiterated the federal government’s firm resolve to dismantle all impediments hindering investment in the country.

President Tinubu lauded Total Energies’ long-standing commitment to exploration and investment in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector, citing it as a testament to the company’s enduring faith in the Nigerian economy.

To further bolster the appeal of Nigeria to investors, President Tinubu emphasized his administration’s unwavering dedication to improving the investment climate. He specifically highlighted the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) as a key initiative paving the way for a more conducive environment for investment and business operations.

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In a display of commitment, Governor Tinubu pledged that his administration will prioritize efforts to achieve industrial peace, harmony, and development.

Total Energies’ Global CEO, Patrick Pouyanne, emphasized Nigeria’s strategic importance, highlighting its contribution of 8-10% to global production and over 18% to global investment.

“Mr. President, we are ready to invest $6 billion in the coming years. We are looking extensively at more deepwater production and gas production opportunities across the terrain. We welcome your policies and your personal commitment to ensuring that all required fiscal incentives are provided while security issues are tackled. Everything is here. We just need to conclude with the tweaks and changes necessary to unlock the outstanding potential in both oil and gas,” the Total Energies Worldwide Group Chairman stated.

Highlighting TotalEnergies’ alignment with Nigeria’s Energy Transition Plan, Pouyanne reiterated the company’s dedication to monetizing all available gas resources. This not only generates economic value but also supports environmental sustainability through continued adherence to the zero-flaring policy.

President Bola Tinubu has issued a strong warning to the newly inaugurated Board of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) that non-performance will not be tolerated. 

He emphasised this point by immediately ordering the Board to get to work, underscoring the urgency of delivering results.

Tinubu further stressed that any conduct hinting at a sense of entitlement will be met with swift action. 

He went so far as to say that the Board could be dissolved without prior notice if members fail to meet expectations. This stern message signifies his unwavering commitment to accountability and performance.

Recognising the environmental impact of oil exploration in the Niger Delta, Tinubu also highlighted the crucial role of corporate social responsibility. 

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He urged the Board to prioritise this aspect, ensuring that the communities most affected by oil activities receive tangible benefits and support.

“Niger Delta must be seen as the goose that lays the golden egg, and we must treat that region with the deserved respect and care. It is not asking for too much to ensure quality and constant water supply, schools, medical facilities, and roads. 

“It is not about us. It is about the well-being of the entire country and the lifeblood of the nation. We should care more about the environment. We will do more for security to minimize stealing and vandalization,’’ he stated.

Tinubu further directed that more attention should be given to gas as Nigeria transitions to cleaner energy, adding that “We need to show that we are committed to the welfare of our country.”

“Take a look at the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA), and know what the pitfalls are. The Cabinet members and Board should decide what we can do differently for production increase, profitability, and governance. It is in your hands. I will work with you,’’ he said. 

The Chairman of the Board, Chief Pius Akinyelure, commended Tinubu for the removal of petrol subsidy, noting that the nation would have drowned in debt, but for his decisiveness.

“Our focus is to increase production. We must address the problem of stealing and pipeline vandalization in the Niger Delta. We are aware of the efforts in the past, but we will do more,’’ he said.