President Muhammadu Buhari has said he will no longer tolerate irresponsible criticism of his government by agents of falsehood who would do anything to undermine his government’s remarkable achievements.
Buhari who made the statement at a retreat organized for ministers, permanent secretaries and other top government officials, at the State House Conference Centre, Presidential Villa, Abuja on Monday and Tuesday, said it is no longer time to play nice while critics rubbish his achievements.
He then charged his officials to instead, be on the offensive, by vigorously pushing back against these "irresponsible" elements until Nigerians get the true picture of his government’s achievements since coming to office.
He said, “I have to charge all of you to defend the government vigorously and not allow any irresponsible and politically motivated statements to keep spreading falsehoods about this government. Information to the public should be better packaged, go on the offensive, we are proud of our achievements and we should blow our own trumpets,” the Nigerian leader said.
“Let me also reiterate that all submissions for my attention or meeting requests be channelled through the Chief of Staff. While all Federal Executive Council matters be coordinated through the Secretary to the Government of the Federation.
“I have directed the Minister of Finance, Budget and National Planning, the Governor of Central Bank of Nigeria, and all other responsible Agencies to ensure speedy and timely release of funds to MDAs for implementation of the N2.3 Trillion Economic Sustainability Plan and the Capital Projects in the 2020 Budget. I also enjoin ministers to ensure that funds released are utilized efficiently and transparently in implementing the programmes and projects along the 9 Priorities of Government,” he said.
He also assured Nigerians of his government’s commitment to ending poverty in the country.
He said, “Let me reassure all Nigerians that this administration remains resolute in initiating programmes aimed at improving the quality of lives and uplifting 100 million Nigerians out of poverty over the next ten years.”
On insecurity, he said, “Our security operations in the Niger Delta, North Central and North Western States are yielding desired results. We hope to get rid of bandits, kidnappers and other criminal elements in these regions.”