I Never Leave Home Without Reading Newspapers” – Tinubu

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reassured Nigerians that the welfare of citizens remains a priority for his administration, noting that he closely follows developments across the country through daily newspaper reviews before beginning his official duties.

According to Ireporter Online, the president made the remarks during an interfaith breaking of fast with senior journalists and media executives at the Aso Rock Presidential Villa in Abuja. Tinubu explained that reading newspapers each morning has become a personal routine, allowing him to stay informed about national issues and public sentiment. He acknowledged that while he may not go through every report in detail, he pays close attention to major headlines and stories that stand out.

During the gathering, the president reflected on the early days of his administration, admitting that he approached some issues with firmness while seeking opportunities to address long-standing challenges and improve living conditions for ordinary Nigerians. He emphasized that his government remains focused on implementing policies aimed at easing the burden on the masses and creating better opportunities for citizens.

Tinubu also stressed that national development should not rest solely on the shoulders of the federal government. He urged the media to expand their scrutiny to include state governments and local government authorities, particularly as reforms have increased financial autonomy for lower tiers of government. The president noted that local councils now receive allocations directly from the Federal Government, describing it as part of broader efforts to strengthen the principles of true federalism.

He called on journalists and media organizations to hold all levels of government accountable for how public funds are utilized, noting that transparency and oversight are essential for sustainable development. Tinubu further stated that although challenges remain, the country must continue to manage available resources carefully in order to maintain stability, support current needs and make steady progress.

The president also claimed that financial reforms have improved fiscal conditions across the states, asserting that no state government is currently borrowing funds to pay workers’ salaries. He reiterated his commitment to leading with dedication and patriotism, while encouraging Nigerians to see national progress as a shared responsibility that requires collective effort from government institutions, the media and the public.