By John Audu
President Bola Tinubu has disclosed that he faced profound doubts and nearly abandoned his pursuit of the presidency during the intense 2023 election campaign, grappling with formidable challenges and widespread skepticism, even from within his close circle. This revelation came during a special Iftar dinner held in his honor at the Presidential Villa on Saturday night, where he reflected on the arduous journey to the nation’s highest office.
According to excerpts of the President’s speech, released in a statement by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu spoke candidly about the overwhelming odds he faced. He recounted a specific incident during the campaign, where a relative’s desperate plea for financial assistance amidst the naira redesign crisis underscored the prevailing sense of doubt.
“Those close to me know that the odds were against me,” Tinubu stated. “During the campaigns, one of them came to my living room around 3:30 a.m. and said he needed just N50,000 to buy foodstuff for our uncle. He told me, ‘The currency is gone because of you. People are jumping over bank counters because there is no cash. Our uncle, a wealthy man, doesn’t even have N10,000 in cash. What are you running for?'”
Despite this discouragement, Tinubu said he remained resolute. He said “I told him, ‘I am running for President, not for you and our uncle.’ I gave him the N50,000. As he walked out, he turned to me and said, ‘I don’t think you will make it.’ I replied, ‘I will make it.'”
The president credited the support of key figures, such as Aminu Masari, for bolstering his determination. He also addressed the controversial decision to remove the fuel subsidy upon assuming office, framing it as a necessary, albeit difficult, step for the nation’s future.
“The hallmark of a great leader is the ability to make the right decision at the right time,” Tinubu asserted, defending his policy.
Vice President Kashim Shettima and Senate President Godswill Akpabio offered strong endorsements of Tinubu’s leadership, highlighting his courage in tackling long-standing economic challenges. Other officials present echoed these sentiments, praising the president’s decisiveness and commitment to national progress.
