President Bola Tinubu has said Nigerians are free to criticise or even insult him without fear of reprisals, describing tolerance for dissent as a key part of his administration’s commitment to democracy and press freedom.
Tinubu made the statement on Thursday, September 3, during the centenary celebration of the Daily Times of Nigeria Limited in Abuja. He was represented at the event by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume.
According to Akume, the President said, “Let us admit that under this government, you can insult and attack the president and still go to bed without midnight troubles. This philosophy lies at the heart of the Renewed Hope Agenda.”
Tinubu said his administration recognises the media’s crucial role in shaping national discourse and acknowledged that many of the challenges facing Nigeria developed over several decades.
He noted that the country’s problems were largely rooted in structural weaknesses that had accumulated over the years, making difficult but necessary reforms unavoidable.
The President said national renewal required the courage to understand Nigeria’s past, confront the difficulties inherited from previous administrations and make tough decisions about the country’s future.
He explained that the reforms introduced by his administration were not merely isolated policy measures but part of a broader effort to change Nigeria’s long-term economic trajectory.
According to Tinubu, the reforms are designed to strengthen the country’s fiscal foundation, build a more productive economy, improve institutions, attract investment, upgrade infrastructure and create greater opportunities for young Nigerians.
He added that the ultimate goal was to position Nigeria to “compete more meaningfully and purposefully in the global economy.”
