President Bola Tinubu shared a surprising moment of doubt during his 2023 presidential campaign, revealing he nearly quit the race.
This personal story was shared at a special Iftar held in his honor at the Aso Rock Presidential Villa in Abuja, where he celebrated his 73rd birthday.
Tinubu recounted how a close relative questioned his resolve in the middle of the night, citing economic hardships faced by their family and others due to cash scarcity during the campaign.
“Those close to me know that the odds were against me. During the campaigns. One came to my living room around 3:30 a.m. and said he needed just N50,000 to buy foodstuff for our uncle.
“He told me, ‘The currency is gone because of you. People are jumping over bank counters because there is no cash. Our uncle, a wealthy man, doesn’t even have N10,000 in cash. What are you running for?’
“I told him, ‘I am running for President, not for you and our uncle.’ I gave him the N50,000. As he walked out, he turned to me and said, ‘I don’t think you will make it.’ I replied, ‘I will make it.’”
Tinubu added, “I was amazed. At that moment, I almost dropped the idea of running for President. But thanks to Aminu Masari and all of you who encouraged me.
“When I came to Abuja, Masari told me, ‘I am the Chairman of the North West Group; don’t look back.”
The relative’s words almost made Tinubu abandon his presidential ambition, but encouragement from Aminu Masari and others helped him stay the course.
In his address, Tinubu acknowledged the difficulties he faced on his path to the presidency and reaffirmed his commitment to advancing Nigeria’s progress.
He highlighted his decision to scrap the fuel subsidy on his inauguration day, despite intense criticism.
“On the day of my inauguration, I had to decide on something not originally in my speech, and that was the fuel subsidy removal.
“The hallmark of a great leader is the ability to make the right decision at the right time. That was the day I declared that the subsidy was gone.
“The following day, I was hounded and thoroughly abused in the media. But I stood firm, knowing it was the right thing to do for our nation’s future,” said Tinubu.
Vice President Kashim Shettima praised Tinubu’s leadership style, saying his bold decisions tackled long-standing issues previous administrations sidestepped.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio described Tinubu as the “most audacious president” in Nigeria’s history, applauding his “relentless passion for national development”.
Other dignitaries, including Governor Hope Uzodinma of Imo State and Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy Dr. Bosun Tijjani, commended Tinubu’s leadership and vision.
The event was attended by prominent figures, including the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, and several of the President’s childhood friends.
