Vice President Kashim Shettima has firmly stated that the current administration will not shift blame to the previous government led by former President Muhammadu Buhari for the hurdles it encountered upon taking office.
Addressing attendees at the second Chronicle Roundtable organized by the 21st Century Chronicle, Vice President Shettima acknowledged the intricate complexities of governance in Nigeria amidst prevailing socio-economic issues.
He emphasized the administration’s commitment to prioritizing the welfare and safety of the citizens over short-term economic gains. Shettima asserted, “The president opted for the choice that would safeguard the lives of the people rather than actions that would exacerbate economic challenges. We will refrain from attributing blame to the past administration as leadership entails courage and continuity.”
Reflecting on the daunting task of addressing long-standing issues, Shettima spotlighted the removal of fuel subsidy as a crucial decision made to tackle the country’s fiscal constraints. He recognized the inherent difficulties and the imperative of making tough decisions for the nation’s long-term prosperity.
Shettima elaborated, “Prior to assuming office, the looming issue of fuel subsidy removal loomed large. It had burdened the nation for the past 20 to 30 years. We understood the rationale behind the previous administration’s decision to remove the subsidy due to insufficient budgetary allocations.”
He further elucidated on the dire state of Nigeria’s finances upon inauguration, citing a debt service to revenue ratio of 111.18 percent. This alarming statistic painted a grim picture of the country’s fiscal health, compelling the administration to take decisive action to avert an impending economic crisis.
“We had to abandon the subsidy regime; it was a difficult decision, but a necessary one,” Shettima emphasized.
Vice President Shettima’s remarks underscore the administration’s commitment to accountability, resilience, and pragmatism in addressing Nigeria’s pressing challenges while steering the nation towards sustainable growth and prosperity.
