The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has dismissed claims that President Bola Tinubu is controlled by cabals or a secret inner circle. Speaking at the All Progressives Congress (APC) National Summit in Abuja on Thursday, themed “Renewed Hope Agenda: The Journey So Far,” Idris urged Nigerians to closely understand the President’s leadership style.
He emphasized that while President Tinubu listens to diverse opinions, the final decisions rest solely with him, made in the best interest of Nigeria. Idris said, “You need to study the President carefully. People can voice their opinions, and he listens, but his decisions are ultimately his own. It’s important for us to acknowledge that.”
Addressing the summit’s theme, the Minister described the Renewed Hope Agenda as a bold and people-centered plan that transforms challenges into opportunities. He praised President Tinubu’s courageous decision to remove petrol and foreign exchange subsidies—moves that had long hindered Nigeria’s progress and resulted in significant financial losses.
Idris noted that Tinubu inherited a nation facing critical crossroads but responded with clarity and determination. The impact of these reforms is now visible across various sectors, including infrastructure development, social investments, mining, and energy.
He explained, “The Renewed Hope Agenda aims to positively affect Nigerians’ lives through decisive actions designed to unlock the country’s full potential in unprecedented ways.”
Highlighting key initiatives, the Minister mentioned the ongoing nationwide installation of 90,000 kilometers of fiber optic cable—a broadband rollout on an unparalleled scale. He also discussed the New Nigeria First policy, which mandates federal ministries, departments, and agencies to prioritize local goods, services, and expertise in their procurement processes.
“This approach is historically unprecedented and aims to fast-track industrialization through boosting local production while shielding Nigeria’s economy from global shocks,” Idris added.
Overall, the Minister portrayed the Renewed Hope Agenda as a comprehensive strategy deeply focused on the welfare of Nigerians, emphasizing transparency, self-reliance, and sustainable growth under President Tinubu’s leadership.
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