President Muhammadu Buhari has assured that Nigerians will soon begin to reap the benefits of the change they voted for, as he promised effective and efficient implementation of the 2016 budget.
“I have charged all my ministers and other appointees to ensure that Nigerians experience positive changes in their lives in 2016,” the President said in his New Year message, which he personally signed and issued on Thursday.
He explained that living in the Presidential Villa has not blindfolded him from the economic challenges faced by millions of Nigerians, chief among which are the fuel queues and restriction on foreign exchange.
“I am aware that Nigerians have experienced a number of significant hardships over the past months. Living in the State House has not alienated me from your daily sufferings. I am aware of the lengthy queues at fuel stations and of the difficulties businesses have faced in acquiring foreign exchange. These challenges are only temporary; we are working to make things better,” Buhari said.
While reminding the people why they voted for him, the President assured that he remains committed to fulfilling the campaign promises he made to them.
“When I presented myself to you as a presidential candidate and asked you to vote for me, I wanted to be a leader who keeps his promises. I wanted to be a leader who restores the people’s hope in those elected to serve them. I wanted to be a leader who initiates positive and enduring change.
“I am still totally committed to being that kind of leader. Unforeseen circumstances and other distractions notwithstanding, I shall still do my utmost best to keep every promise I made to Nigerians during my election campaign,” he stated.
Despite the relative success recorded against Boko Haram insurgents, Buhari said government will not rest until the country is completely rid of the group.
The President also called on the judiciary to support government’s anti-corruption war by dealing with corruption cases before it expeditiously.
“Our crackdown on corruption will continue to be vigorously undertaken. I urge the courts to support our efforts and help in the recovery of stolen funds by speedily concluding trials and showing that impunity no longer has a place in our country,” he added.