Politics

Do Your Worst: Tinubu Challenges Trump, Insists Nigeria’s Economy Is Resilient

Chioma Ndukwu 3 months ago 2 min read

By: Chioma Madonna Ndukwu

President Bola Tinubu has declared that Nigeria’s economy is strong enough to withstand external pressure, even from the United States under President Donald Trump.

Speaking on Tuesday while receiving a delegation of former members of the defunct Congress for Progressive Change (CPC) at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, Tinubu announced that Nigeria met its revenue target for the year as early as August.

“Today, I can stand here proudly to say Nigeria is not borrowing. We achieved our revenue target for the year in August. Let Trump do his worst — we are stable,” the President said.

Tinubu credited the achievement to improved non-oil revenue, adding that his government has put structures in place to shield the economy from global uncertainties.

“As long as non-oil revenue is performing, we have no fear of what Trump is doing elsewhere,” he added.

Reflecting on economic reforms since he assumed office, Tinubu said the exchange rate had peaked at N1,900 to the dollar before stabilising around N1,450, thanks to fiscal discipline and policy changes.

According to him, access to foreign exchange is now transparent, and no longer reliant on political influence.

“You don’t have to know a Central Bank governor to get forex anymore. Export, import, and create jobs — that is what matters now,” he explained.

Tinubu stressed that his administration is committed to food security, describing agriculture as the foundation of Nigeria’s long-term stability.

He revealed approval for a nationwide mechanisation programme with training centres and infrastructure to support farmers. “Food sovereignty is our backbone. If we end hunger, we end poverty,” he said.

On political appointments, the President admitted that some were still pending, including ambassadorial positions, but assured the CPC bloc of continued inclusion in governance.

He also reflected on the early days of the APC merger, recalling his debates with Muhammadu Buhari on party symbols.

Tinubu pledged to honour Buhari’s legacy by upholding values of honesty, justice, and discipline, and announced plans to establish a “Buhari House” as a national symbol.

Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, who led the CPC delegation, pledged full loyalty to Tinubu’s administration and dismissed claims that the CPC bloc was divided. He also commended the President for giving Buhari a dignified burial.

Former Nasarawa governor and CPC leader, Senator Tanko Al-Makura, praised Tinubu’s handling of Buhari’s death and described the Renewed Hope Agenda as a practical blueprint for national recovery.

Closing the meeting, Tinubu promised that the reforms already underway would ensure lasting prosperity for Nigerians.