'If You Can't See Our Achievements, I'll Give You Eyeglasses So You Can See Properly' - Tinubu Tells Critics
Baron
9/8/20262 min read
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has hit back at critics of his administration, saying Nigerians who cannot see the progress being made under his government may need “eyeglasses” to appreciate its achievements.
Tinubu made the remark at the State House during a meeting with members of the Renewed Hope Ambassadors, where he defended his administration’s economic reforms and development efforts. According to the President, his government is working to improve infrastructure, strengthen the economy and create better opportunities for Nigerians despite the difficulties associated with the ongoing reforms. “If they don’t want to see the hope in the roads we build, the children we raise, and the economy we are growing, we will give them eyeglasses,” Tinubu said. The comment drew reactions from those at the meeting as the President continued to defend his administration’s record.
Tinubu also described his government as a continuation of the administration of his predecessor, former President Muhammadu Buhari, whom he referred to as a “partner.” “The truth is I took over from myself. The late Buhari is me, he was a partner. If something is wrong, live with it, correct it and move on,” he said.
The President acknowledged that Nigeria’s economic recovery has not been easy, urging citizens to remain patient as his administration implements its policies under the Renewed Hope agenda.
He said the reforms were designed to produce lasting economic benefits and improve the living conditions of Nigerians over time. Tinubu also stressed the need for national unity and respect for democratic institutions, warning against actions capable of weakening the country’s democracy. He urged Nigerians and political stakeholders to respect the judiciary and obey lawful court orders, irrespective of whether such decisions favour them.
“We cannot submit to disobedience of a lawful order of the court. We must embrace the judiciary whether it favours us or not,” the President stated. The President further called on his political supporters and stakeholders to strengthen grassroots mobilisation and adopt data-driven approaches to governance.
According to him, effective coordination from the ward level would be crucial to achieving meaningful development across the country. Reflecting on his political journey, Tinubu acknowledged the challenges he faced during the party primaries and the 2023 general election but said he remained determined to continue with his administration’s agenda. “I won’t run away from you. The journey is not easy, but you will not regret it,” he said.
Tinubu concluded by reaffirming his commitment to building a united and prosperous Nigeria and urged Nigerians to support a shared vision of national progress.