Buhari commends Tinubu, urges citizens to taper expectations

In a statement released by his Senior Special Assistant on Media and Publicity, Garba Shehu, Buhari praised Tinubu’s leadership and urged the public to support the government’s efforts, cautioning that meaningful change takes time and should not be obstructed by “nettlesome domestic politics.”

The statement, titled ‘Tinubu Gets Buhari’s Praise, Advice At Midterm,’ highlighted Buhari’s endorsement of the Tinubu administration’s economic reforms and called for national unity in addressing the country’s socio-economic challenges.

“Reforms are a gradual process, not something achieved overnight,” Buhari said. “The fight against poverty and inflation—issues that disproportionately affect the most vulnerable—cannot rest on the government alone. The private sector and all citizens must play their part.”

President Tinubu’s “Renewed Hope Agenda,” launched after his inauguration on May 29, 2023, included the removal of fuel subsidies, liberalisation of the naira, and full repayment of a $3.4 billion COVID-19 loan.

While these reforms aimed to stabilize the economy, they have also triggered a steep rise in living costs.

On May 23, 2025, the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) reaffirmed Tinubu as its sole presidential candidate for the 2027 elections, even as defections and criticism emerged from opposition parties.

Despite growing public concern over economic hardships, Buhari called for continued support for the administration, urging Nigerians to remain optimistic.

“Our expectations of government should be measured,” he advised. “I extend heartfelt congratulations to President Tinubu on reaching this two-year milestone. May he continue to lead with wisdom and compassion.”