President Tinubu Was Prepared for Challenges Following Fuel Subsidy Removal, Says Information Minister

 President Tinubu Was Prepared for Challenges Following Fuel Subsidy Removal, Says Information Minister

The federal government has defended the removal of petrol subsidy, asserting that the country's situation would be more challenging without it. Information Minister Mohammed Malagi, during a Channels Television program, stated that meaningful development would be hindered if the subsidy remained.

Malagi emphasized that President Bola Tinubu foresaw the difficulties Nigerians would face after the subsidy's removal. Addressing the longstanding economic challenges, he stressed the need for a reset, citing the President's commitment to eliminating the subsidy.

Acknowledging the expected challenges, Malagi stated, "He anticipated that Nigerians would encounter some difficulties. But it would be worse if that subsidy did not go. It would have been difficult to carry out any meaningful development. We needed to free up resources."

The Minister highlighted that the impact of the subsidy was not felt by the masses, as specific individuals were benefiting from it. He also mentioned ongoing investigations by security agencies to apprehend those responsible for illicit gains.