As President Muhammadu Buhari prepares to leave office after an 8-year tenure, he has acknowledged the shortcomings of his economic policies, which resulted in significant hardships for Nigerians.
In what he considers his final official duty, President Buhari humbly asked Nigerians for forgiveness for any pain caused by the policies implemented during his administration.
He acknowledged that while revamping the economy, difficult decisions were made, some of which caused temporary suffering. However, he expressed that these measures were taken for the greater good of the country.
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Our economy has become resilient
President Buhari highlighted that despite the challenges faced, the Nigerian economy has become more resilient due to the implementation of various strategies to ensure its stability, even during global economic downturns.
His words:
“Some of the measures led to temporary pains and sufferings for which I sincerely apologised to my fellow countrymen, but the measures were taken for the overall good of the country.
“You would all recall the supply chain disruptions and economic downturn that the world witnessed between 2020 and 2022 as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. The deftness of our response to the pandemic still remains a global best practice.
“Furthermore, we increased the ability of the poor and rural Nigerians to earn a living, provided more food for millions in our villages and gave our women opportunities to earn a living.
“Young men and women in urban centres were also supported to put their skills into productive use.”
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If my policies have hurt you, please forgive me – Buhari begs Nigerians
In a similar story, the President appealed to Nigerians, especially those hurt by his administration’s numerous policies to please forgive him.
The retired General made this plea during his final Sallah message as president at the Banquet Hall of the Presidential Villa, Abuja, on Friday, April 21, as reported by Daily Trust.
Buhari also appreciated Nigerians for tolerating him during his eight-year tenure that would officially wind down on May 29th 2023. “I think this is a very good coincidence for me to say goodbye to you and to thank you for tolerating me for more than seven and half years now,” he said.
