Independence Day: Tinubu compares economic reforms to cancer treatment

President Bola Tinubu has compared his administration’s economic reforms to painful cancer treatment, saying difficult measures were necessary to address Nigeria’s underlying problems.

In a televised address marking Nigeria’s 66th Independence Anniversary, Tinubu said the country he inherited in 2023 required tough decisions. Premium Times reported that the president likened Nigeria’s economic condition to a seriously ill patient facing difficult treatment.

“Nigeria was like a sick patient who receives the terrible news that he has cancer. His doctor explains that the treatment will be difficult and painful, but that it offers a strong prospect of recovery.”

Tinubu accused previous administrations of addressing symptoms rather than fundamental economic problems.

“When this administration assumed office, we resolved to do things differently. We chose to excise the cancer. The reforms that followed were difficult. The side effects were real. Yet, we must never confuse the medicine with the disease,” he said.

The president maintained that the reforms were intended to confront longstanding weaknesses.