Fuel Subsidy Removal Was Painful But Necessary — Tinubu Insists as FG Rallies APC Information Commissioners

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reaffirmed that his administration’s decision to eliminate fuel subsidies on inauguration day was a tough but essential step to stabilize Nigeria’s economy and redirect public funds towards critical infrastructure.

Speaking through the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris Malagi, during the quarterly meeting of the Progressives Governors’ Forum in Minna, the President underscored the far-reaching impact of the subsidy removal. The gathering included Commissioners for Information from APC-controlled states.

Malagi emphasized the importance of proper communication, urging the commissioners to equip themselves with the right data and messaging tools to help citizens understand the government’s reform agenda and how they can benefit from it.

He said, “The fuel subsidy removal was one of the boldest and most vital reforms by this administration. Though painful, it was necessary to rescue the economy from potential collapse. It has helped seal financial leakages and freed up funds now directed towards large-scale infrastructure projects such as the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Superhighway, the Sokoto-Badagry Super Highway, and the Kaduna-Kano Standard Gauge Railway, among others.”

The Minister stressed that commissioners are the government’s voice at the grassroots and must return to their states with facts and strategies to effectively communicate the Renewed Hope Agenda.

He explained that the meeting aimed to reinforce the collective responsibility of all government communicators in showcasing the achievements, plans, and implementation of the administration’s priorities at every level.

Representing Governor Mohammed Bago of Niger State, the Secretary to the State Government, Abubakar Gawu, highlighted the unity and results-driven focus of APC governors. He said Niger State is undergoing transformation with reforms in agriculture, digital innovation, urban renewal, and youth development.

Also speaking, Niger State Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Binta Mamman, noted that the theme of the conference, “Strategic Communication and Policy Alignment,” was vital for clear messaging in a complex governance era. She said effective communication is central to development, accountability, and countering misinformation.

Mamman added, “As information managers, we are tasked not only with promoting government achievements but also with shaping public narratives, confronting misinformation, and aligning state efforts with the progressive vision for national growth and security.”