‘I took the punch in the chin’ — Tinubu on path to Aso Rock

President Bola Tinubu says he overcame significant political and legal challenges to emerge as Nigeria’s president, attributing his success to perseverance and support from party members.

President Bola Tinubu has said he faced significant political and legal challenges on his path to becoming Nigeria’s president. The President made the remarks on Friday while hosting members of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF), led by Vice President Kashim Shettima, at his Lagos residence. He thanked party loyalists and governors who stood by him during the difficult period leading to the 2023 presidential election.

“I have heard the remarks; the joy is in the heart. And the fact that we pushed together at the time I faced the challenges of trying to become the president of the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” Tinubu said. “It was very challenging. It was tough for those who were at the party with me. Some kept faith, and instead of dodging the bullets, I took it. I took the punch in the chin, a very hard one.” He noted that despite the obstacles, he remained focused on his ambition and continued his campaign without fully disclosing his plans to many people.

The President said the challenges extended beyond the campaign period, citing legal battles and accusations that followed the election. “I stayed the course in the efforts to campaign. I didn’t disclose to anybody what I would do. Many of you took the risks and went along because of the party platform and everything,” he said. “We survived. We faced litigations and accusations. We survived it. Instead of bankruptcy, Nigeria has survived. The economy has recovered. It’s growing. Agriculture is booming. Food is here.” Tinubu maintained that the country had weathered difficult times and was now on a path of economic recovery and growth.

READ THE FULL STORY IN THE CABLE