Information minister Mohammed Idris says Nigerians will continue to writhe in pain until President Bola Tinubu completes the implementation of his harsh policies.

The minister also claimed that Mr Tinbu had acquitted himself creditably over the past two years by implementing bold reforms targeted at repositioning Nigeria’s economy. Mr Idris made this assertion on Channels TV, according to a statement on Thursday by the minister’s spokesman, Rabiu Ibrahim.

The minister praised the Tinubu administration for initiating tough but necessary economic reforms, which, according to him, are laying the groundwork for long-term growth and national stability.

“At the onset of the administration, two very important policy decisions were taken: the unification of the exchange rate and the removal of fuel subsidy.

“These were issues that have been there for decades, and of course, you don’t expect that you are going to have a major surgery without pains.

“That pain is gradually easing out. We are not saying that all the pains have disappeared by now, but what we are saying is that the government is on the right track,” the statement explained.

The minister noted that Mr Tinubu was not driven by the pursuit of quick fixes or short-term gains but rather by a clear vision to lay a solid foundation for enduring growth and development.

“We are taking down what was not working and putting a solid foundation so that our economy can grow. There is steady progression towards the destination and the prosperity that Mr President has promised Nigerians,” Mr Idris stated.

According to Mr Idris, the Tinubu government has demonstrated decisive leadership by adopting a unique and proactive approach to national security.

Mr Idris said the president had prioritised synergy and coordination among the military and security agencies, thereby fostering a unified front in the fight against terrorism, banditry, and other criminal activities.

The information minister further noted that the president had issued clear and direct orders to the armed forces to take all necessary measures to restore peace and security across the country, reaffirming his commitment to protecting the lives and property of all Nigerians.

“We shouldn’t have that (violent attacks) happening in Nigeria, but this has happened over and over again, but what is different now is the kind of response we are seeing from Mr President.

“Tinubu went to Benue with the full weight of his administration, and you could see the national security adviser, the chief of defence staff and all those who matter in making sure that this problem is stamped out once and for all. And mark you, the president has given marching orders to security apparatus to ‘get them out’,” Mr Idris said.

The minister also assured that Mr Tinubu remains committed to strengthening diplomatic ties with neighbouring countries and enhancing border security through the strategic deployment of technology. 

(NAN)