Recession Came Not By Our Invitation, Tinubu Tells Nigerians

Tinubu noted that economic crisis is a phase that “virtually all nations” go through and that Nigerians must remain steadfast.

“During this Season of Eid-el-Kabir, I wish to felicitate with the Muslim brotherhood. We must give thanks to almighty Allah for keeping us alive to celebrate this Eid,” the former Lagos state governor said in his Eid-el-Kabir message to Nigerians.

“This spirit of sacrifice and unselfish giving that defines this celebration must guide us all in the way we relate to others and in our quest for a better society. Through sacrifice and a heart and hand of charity we can lift up many who will in turn become better tools for the socio-economic rejunevation we so desire.

“We must see our current economic situation as a passing phase. We shall overcome. Our faith summons us to have faith but also to work so that things can get better.

“This economic predicament is not of our making or choosing. It came not by invitation. The economic downturn represents a tough challenge not lightly overcome. No one wished that such an impediment would confront us. Now, we must rise to the occasion. Our economic situation presents an opportunity for us to do something we have avoided too long.

“The present circumstance demands that we engage in a discourse concerning the type of “post-oil era” economy we truly want and what are the ideological underpinnings and policy thrusts needed to erect this new architecture.

“This architecture must be inward looking and homegrown starting with the boosting of the agricultural economy leading to a diversification we have all longed for. As the government re-tools and re-fines different policies, we as citizens must locate our role and responsibility and join hands with this government until the clouds of recession recedes.

“A new horizon beckons for Nigeria sooner rather than later as we pass through a necessary phase often experienced in the life of virtually all nations.

“Nigerians deserve a better country, more empowerment, job opportunities and an overall strong economy. The current government is committed to achieving this,” Tinubu added.