“I Inherited a Country Near Bankruptcy” – Tinubu Tells Nigerians in Saint Lucia

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has revealed that he took over a Nigerian economy on the brink of collapse, but said his administration has made bold reforms to stabilise the country and restore investor confidence.

Speaking during an interactive session with Nigerians living in Saint Lucia on Wednesday at the Windjammer Resort in Castries, Tinubu explained that his government has made significant strides since assuming office.

“We inherited a country that was near bankruptcy,” Tinubu said, as quoted in a statement by Bayo Onanuga, his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy.

“But we have been able to rescue the economy. Nigeria has recovered. We have made the smuggling of our oil unattractive. We have stopped chasing forex papers at the Central Bank of Nigeria.”

The President acknowledged that while Nigeria’s per capita income remains low, his administration is introducing long-term strategies to drive inclusive growth and economic stability.

Addressing the diaspora, Tinubu assured:

“Our government will not abandon you. But you must work hard. It is our job to help you succeed.”

The meeting—organised by Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Chairman of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission was part of Tinubu’s two-day engagement with Nigerians living in the Caribbean nation. The first session was hosted Tuesday night at the official residence of Saint Lucia’s Prime Minister, Philip J. Pierre.