PRESIDENT Bola Tinubu has expressed confidence that Nigeria’s economy is on a steady path to recovery, stating that his administration’s economic reforms are beginning to yield meaningful results despite the hardships experienced by citizens.
The President made the remarks today while receiving a delegation from Deloitte Africa, led by the firm’s Chief Executive Officer for Africa, Ruwayda Redfearn, at the State House in Abuja.
According to a statement issued by the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu maintained that although the reforms have been difficult, they are laying a solid foundation for sustainable economic growth.
He described the reform process as “bitter medicine” but insisted it was necessary to reposition the country’s economy.
“The reforms are not easy, but they are working. They will continue to strengthen revenue generation, stimulate economic growth, and build a more competitive Nigeria,” the President said.
Tinubu also highlighted improvements in the country’s fiscal and financial systems, noting that the reforms have strengthened institutions and better positioned Nigeria in the global economy.
Reflecting on his accounting background, the President recalled his early professional years, acknowledging Deloitte’s role in shaping accounting professionals and encouraging the firm to continue investing in Nigeria’s young talent through training and recruitment.
In response, Deloitte Africa CEO Ruwayda Redfearn reaffirmed the firm’s commitment to supporting Nigeria’s economic transformation. She said the organisation, which employs over 500,000 people globally—including more than 6,000 across Africa—is ready to deploy both its local and international expertise to assist the administration.
Similarly, Deloitte West Africa CEO Yomi Olugbenro praised the government’s reform agenda, describing it as a strong foundation for future growth. However, he stressed the importance of ensuring that the benefits of the reforms translate into tangible improvements in the lives of ordinary Nigerians.
“We believe the groundwork has been laid. The next step is ensuring these reforms deliver real value and improve the lives of everyday Nigerians,” Olugbenro said.
Also speaking at the meeting, the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Taiwo Oyedele, encouraged Deloitte to prioritise youth development, describing investment in Nigeria’s young population as one of the most impactful contributions the firm could make to the country’s long-term growth.