Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun has praised President Bola Tinubu for averting a potential ₦5.4 trillion expenditure on petrol subsidies in 2024. He emphasized that previous administrations had inadvertently been subsidizing petrol for neighboring African countries, placing a significant financial burden on Nigeria.
Governor Abiodun made these remarks during a church service held at the Cathedral Church of St. Peter, Ake, Abeokuta, to commemorate Nigeria’s 64th Independence Day. He urged Nigerians to remain patient and resilient amid economic hardships, asserting that the Tinubu administration is focused on repositioning the country for greater growth.
“The federal government under the amiable leadership of our President, Bola Tinubu, wasted no time in embarking on bold and audacious initiatives aimed at repositioning our economy and saving us from bankruptcy. We must persevere,” he stated.
He explained that the removal of the subsidy was crucial, noting, “If not curbed, [the subsidy] would have cost us ₦5.4 trillion by the end of 2024.” Abiodun pointed out that such funds could be better utilized for infrastructure development and social services, referencing the current year’s infrastructure budget of ₦6.7 trillion.
The governor also discouraged participation in the upcoming October 1st protests, advocating instead for constructive engagement with the government. He called for unity and prayers for the nation, warning against actions that could lead to vandalism and destruction.
“Let us be resilient, let us continue to pray, let us persevere, and let us hold on to our faith in Almighty God. Let us engage constructively and work with the government, knowing that this administration is an inclusive one,” he concluded.
