Tinubu: Nigerian Youths Could Vote Me Out If I Fail to Fix Economy

Tinubu: Nigerian Youths Could Vote Me Out If I Fail to Fix Economy

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has said that Nigeria’s large youth population could remove him from office if his administration fails to successfully address the country’s economic challenges, stressing that accountability through elections remains a key feature of democracy.

Tinubu made the remarks on Thursday at the Africa CEO Forum, where he spoke extensively about Nigeria’s economic direction, investment climate, and ongoing reforms aimed at restoring investor confidence. According to the President, Nigerian youths are increasingly aware, vocal, and unwilling to tolerate poor governance, adding that political leaders must remain responsive to their expectations.

“We have a very dynamic youthful population, restless and not ready to accept any excuses. As a politician, if I don’t prepare them for that, they will vote me out,” Tinubu said.

The President also defended the sweeping economic reforms introduced since assuming office, noting that they are designed to correct long-standing structural weaknesses and position Nigeria for sustainable growth. He explained that the policies are aimed at strengthening fiscal stability, improving revenue generation, and making the economy more attractive to global investors.

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Tinubu referenced his experience as Governor of Lagos State, particularly reforms in tax administration and revenue systems, saying those lessons continue to shape his national economic strategy. He described Lagos as a successful example of sub-national economic management that has helped guide his approach to governance at the federal level.

He also stated that Lagos remains one of Africa’s strongest economies at the sub-national level and said he continues to monitor its development closely, describing it as part of his governance legacy.

“Lagos is the fifth-largest economy in Africa. I’m very proud of the legacy I left behind there, and I’m still monitoring it,” he said.

On foreign investment, Tinubu said Nigeria is beginning to experience renewed investor interest, claiming the country is currently attracting close to $20 billion in foreign direct investment (FDI). He attributed this to ongoing reforms, policy adjustments, and efforts to reduce bureaucratic barriers that previously discouraged investors.

According to him, investors are more likely to commit funds in environments that demonstrate transparency, accountability, and policy consistency, stressing that governance credibility plays a major role in economic performance.

“Investment is very cowardly unless you are transparent, accountable and forthright,” he said.

Tinubu further called for stronger African economic cooperation, arguing that the continent must better organise its resources to improve bargaining power in global markets and strengthen collective economic resilience.

He also revealed that he had written an article published in the Financial Times, where he discussed international rating agencies and Nigeria’s efforts to reposition itself in the global financial system.

Tinubu: Nigerian Youths Could Vote Me Out If I Fail to Fix Economy