The Fiscal Policy Chairman, Taiwo Oyedele, has advised Nigerians to desist from using the popular phrase, “May Nigeria not happen to you,” as it portrays a negative and unpatriotic mindset about the country.
During his address at The Platform, an event organized by the Covenant Nation, Oyedele encouraged citizens to adopt a more optimistic perspective by saying, “May Nigeria work for me,” instead. He emphasized that such a shift in mindset is vital for fostering hope and patriotism among Nigerians.
Oyedele pointed out that challenges in Nigeria do not mean the country itself is flawed but may instead reflect shortcomings in leadership. He provided examples from other nations, highlighting how citizens remain optimistic despite challenges.
He said: “There is nothing wrong with Nigeria. But maybe there is something wrong with the people ruling Nigeria. In America, people get killed every day by gunmen. But have you ever heard Americans say, ‘May America never happen to you?’ Let’s stop saying, ‘May Nigeria never happen to you.’ Maybe we can turn it into, ‘May Nigeria work for me.’”
Oyedele also expressed confidence in Nigeria’s economic trajectory, reassuring citizens that the worst of the economic challenges brought on by recent reforms is behind them. He praised the removal of fuel subsidies as a bold and necessary step toward economic recovery and stability.
“Going by available data, I personally believe that the worst is behind us,” he said. “Removing subsidies is the best decision we made as a country. And we can now say that, for once, the subsidy is gone.”
Reflecting on past economic policies, he noted how previous practices masked the true realities of Nigeria’s economy. He explained: “We were living in window-dressed realities. If you look back to about two years ago, the naira exchange rate was N450 depending on who you asked. But was our exchange rate really N450? If you wanted to buy petrol, it was under N200 per litre, but was it really under N200 per litre?”
Oyedele’s remarks at the event have sparked discussions among Nigerians, with many reflecting on the importance of unity and hope in building a better future for the country.
