Nigeria's President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is current chair of the West African bloc ECOWAS
AFP

As Nigeria is going through an economic crisis, President Bola Tinubu said that he takes "full responsibility" for the situation, noting that the country will survive the current economic challenges.

Addressing Afenifere leaders at the residence of Pa Reuben Fasoranti in Ondo State Tinubu said, "There is light at the end of the tunnel. I requested the job, and I am not complaining about it. I take full responsibility," as per the official statement shared on Wednesday.

He added, "We are meeting our obligations to the international community. To lenders, we have not defaulted, and we are not going to default. We are navigating the twists and bends on the road to Nigeria's prosperity."

As far as reforming Nigeria is concerned, the president said his actions will ensure fiscal and true federalism, noting that the Nigerians are going through a tough face. However, he doubles down that this economic condition is temporary.

He recalled that the economic challenges endured since he took over the office on May 29 are nothing new to him as previously, he served as governor of Lagos State and faced a similar crisis including people calling for him to resign.

"But, through perseverance, Lagos emerged as the fifth largest economy in the entire continent of Africa. We must manage this moment with wisdom and grow Nigeria responsibly," the president said.

Tinubu added, "I campaigned for this office to serve Nigeria's interests, and I was elected. Some said I would not last in the tribunal and came up with all sorts of predictions, but even when in court, I remained focused."

The president said that the government won't allow Nigeria's economy to be exploited, adding that his administration cannot abandon the economy to marauders. "I am determined to re-engineer our finances and curb selfish interests permanently," he concluded.

Nigeria has been going through an economic crisis since Tinubu announced fuel subsidy removal, which skyrocketed fuel and food prices across the country.

A former Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) Pa Olu Falae spoke on behalf of Afenifere and praised Tinubu for his work and expressed support for his administration's efforts.

Falae said, "You have kept your word to return to this place where we all prayed for you, and this shows that you are a man of your word."