Many thought I would reverse Subsidy Removal when things were Tough – Tinubu

By Kazeem Ugbodaga

President Bola Tinubu has again called for the establishment of State Police as part of efforts to strengthen security architecture across Nigeria, while also pledging to support moves aimed at reducing the high turnover of members in the House of Representatives.

The President made the remarks on Friday at the State House during an interfaith breaking of fast with members of the House of Representatives.

Addressing the lawmakers, Tinubu stressed that decentralising policing remains crucial to tackling insecurity nationwide.

He assured the legislators of his readiness to work within party structures to encourage continuity in the National Assembly.

“I will do everything within our party’s power. In several constituencies, there are rotational arrangements. I wish that everyone would return,” the President said, signalling support for the re-election of sitting members.

Tinubu also expressed confidence in the trajectory of the nation’s economy, saying initial scepticism over his policy direction had begun to fade.

“It was initially very difficult for many to understand the direction of my thinking, but I am glad we are out of the dark tunnel. Many even thought we could reverse the subsidy removal. The tension has subsided,” he said.

The President commended Speaker Tajudeen Abbas for what he described as exemplary leadership and unity within the House, noting the strong representation at the event as a reflection of effective coordination.

In his remarks, Speaker Abbas thanked the President for sustaining the tradition of hosting lawmakers for the breaking of fast, describing the coincidence of Ramadan and Lent as symbolic and significant.

He praised Tinubu’s leadership, stating that members across party lines now express confidence in the administration’s policies.

“In the first year, when you laid out your plans, some viewed them with pessimism. But with improvements in economic indicators, including inflation and agricultural output, Nigeria is on the right track,” Abbas said.

The Speaker also raised concerns about legislative continuity, noting that the frequent exit of up to 80 per cent of National Assembly members after elections weakens institutional memory and slows lawmaking due to the learning curve faced by new entrants.

He appealed for the President’s support to improve the return rate of members in future elections, particularly ahead of the 2027 polls.