By Uche Onyeali
President Bola Tinubu has advised the newly-appointed ministers to remain steadfast while carrying out their duties.
Speaking yesterday during the swearing in of the seven ministers at the State House in Abuja, the president expressed appreciation to the National Assembly for the swift review and commitment to the appointment of the new ministers.
He called on the ministers to work collaboratively in their efforts to rescue the country.
“I really appreciate the fact that you have taken the oath of office and are ready to serve your nation at the time we are facing the challenges of economic growth and other items like security challenges and others.
“It is not easy to find unique people who surrender their lives, freedom and other responsibilities to serve their nation in this time of challenges.
“You will be part of criticism and abuse. Don’t worry; your thanks will come with the history of growth and prosperity for this country.
“The present situation calls for a very serious commitment. Yours is a duty to serve and that is what you have got to do,” the president said.
He noted that despite the economic challenges, Nigeria is on the road to recovery.
Tinubu acknowledged that the cost of living is rising, but said the recent minimum wage increase would ameliorate the situation.
He noted significant improvements in the country’s debt management, reducing debt servicing from 97 percent to 65 percent.
“We have never defaulted in paying or meeting all obligations both foreign and domestic. We have our head above the water.
“Other countries around us and across the world are facing challenges. In fact, there is a lot of crime in Europe and America,” he added.
The president added that his cabinet will not “run away from our responsibility”, but face it head-on.
