“I Took Over From Myself; Buhari Was My Partner,” Tinubu Declares

President Bola Tinubu has said he does not dwell on the state of the economy he inherited, stating that his predecessor, Muhammadu Buhari, was his partner, making the transition akin to taking over from himself.

Tinubu made the remarks on Thursday while hosting the Renewed Hope Ambassadors, a group tasked with promoting his administration’s policies and reforms nationwide.

Addressing concerns about the economy, the President said he was focused on fixing challenges rather than revisiting past conditions. “I didn’t have to look back because the truth is, I took over from myself. The late Buhari is me; he was a partner. If I took over from him, is that not from myself?” he said.

He added that governance requires confronting difficulties and moving forward, noting that the journey would not be easy but assuring supporters of his commitment. According to him, the administration remains determined to deliver on its promises.

Tinubu urged the ambassadors to continue advancing the “Renewed Hope” message, saying Nigerians would eventually see the impact of government efforts in infrastructure, education, and economic growth. He also assured them that he would remain accessible and committed to their shared goals.

Describing the group as part of a collective national mission, the President said they represent the drive to overcome poverty, ignorance, and despair. He reiterated that he would not abandon the course, despite the challenges faced during both the party primaries and the general election.

The President also had words for opposition parties, urging them to respect democratic principles and court decisions. He dismissed any alliance formed against him, particularly referencing the African Democratic Congress (ADC), saying such moves would not intimidate him.

In a veiled remark seen as directed at Atiku Abubakar, Tinubu criticised past privatisation efforts, questioning the outcomes of key projects such as the steel industry in Delta State and the Ajaokuta Steel Company. He argued that Nigerians deserve accountability and promised to remain focused on delivering his administration’s commitments.