During the 29th pre-Ramadan lecture organised by the University of Lagos Muslim Alumni (UMA), Vice President Kashim Shettima revealed that President Bola Tinubu’s administration is facing the difficult and challenging task of resolving the issues plaguing Nigeria.

Shettima emphasized that the current government has no intention of deceiving Nigerians or exacerbating the hardships faced by citizens. He assured the audience that the economic challenges currently confronting the country will soon be overcome.

Speaking at the event in Lagos, Shettima, represented by his Special Adviser on Political Matters, Dr. Hakeem Baba-Ahmed, urged Nigerians to respond to the present realities in a responsible and mature manner.

He stated, “However, my brothers and sisters, we cannot afford to continue in the same direction that has led us to where we are today. We must fix this country, and failure is not an option. The available options are difficult and challenging, and they undoubtedly impact the poor the most. If there were easier and reliable alternatives to the policy choices we have made, we would have pursued them.”

Shettima emphasized that the government does not intend to make the lives of Nigerians more difficult or deceive them into believing that change and expected outcomes can be achieved without pain or sacrifices.

He further highlighted the need for solutions to be rooted in the Nigerian context, taking into account the interconnected nature of the country’s problems. Shettima stressed that the government should consider the experiences and preferences of Nigerians rather than relying solely on the opinions of foreign interests that may not face the consequences of their actions.

“We expect Nigerians to express their sentiments about our circumstances in a responsible and mature manner. As a deeply religious people, we believe in the power of faith and prayers,” Shettima added.