Niger Delta leader Botu urges patience, support for Tinubu’s vision

Niger Delta leader, Prince Emmanuel Botu, also known as Olotu, has urged Nigerians to exercise patience and support President Bola Tinubu’s vision for the country.

Botu who is also a former National Head of Surveillance, Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN), said this on Monday in an address to fellow Nigerians.

“Fellow Nigerians, in the history of every great nation, there comes a time when courage and resilience are tested, when leaders are called to make tough decisions, and when citizens are challenged to unite behind a shared vision. Today, our beloved country, Nigeria, stands at a crossroads,” he said.

“The economic, political, and moral fabric of our nation has been strained and eroded over the past five decades by mismanagement, corruption, and a lack of visionary leadership. Yet, amidst these challenges, there is hope.

“Our President, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, has embarked on a bold and determined journey to rebuild Nigeria, a nation whose vast potential has long been overshadowed by systemic decay.

“His policies, though demanding, are aimed at laying the foundation for a brighter future. Let us take a moment to understand why our patience and support are critical at this time.”

On understanding the challenges, Botu said that the task before President Tinubu is not an easy one.

According to him, the Nigeria we see today bears the scars of decades of economic instability, political unrest, and moral degradation.

He lamented that Nigeria’s economy has been weakened by overdependence on oil, mismanagement of resources, and lack of diversification.

Politically, Botu said the trust between leaders and citizens has been broken, while morally, corruption has seeped into the very fabric of society, adding that these are not issues that can be resolved overnight, nor without sacrifices.

On a new vision for Nigeria, Botu said
President Tinubu has demonstrated the courage to confront these challenges head-on.

He believes that Tinubu’s administration has introduced tough reforms aimed at stabilizing the economy, fostering accountability, and addressing systemic inequalities.

Botu said while these policies may seem harsh in the short term, they are necessary for the long-term prosperity of Nigeria.

“For instance, the removal of fuel subsidies, while painful, is a step toward reducing the massive drain on public funds that could instead be invested in critical sectors like healthcare, education, and infrastructure,” Botu said.

Similarly, his focus on encouraging local production and diversifying the economy will ensure that we are no longer vulnerable to the fluctuations of global oil markets.

“These reforms are designed to create a self-reliant Nigeria—one where every citizen can thrive.”

Botu also spoke about the path to economic restoration, imploring Nigerians to understand that restoring the nation’s economy requires collective effort and patience.

He has, therefore, listed some pathways through which the nation’s economy can be rebuilt.

Investment in Agriculture and Manufacturing: By prioritizing agriculture and local manufacturing, we can reduce our reliance on imports, create jobs, and foster economic growth. These sectors hold immense potential for transforming rural communities and ensuring food security.

Improved Infrastructure: Investments in roads, railways, and power will unlock the potential of businesses and industries. A robust infrastructure will attract foreign and local investors while enabling seamless trade and commerce.

Encouraging Entrepreneurship: Empowering small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) through access to affordable loans and training programs can drive innovation and generate employment opportunities for our youth.

Accountability and Anti-Corruption Efforts: Strengthening institutions to promote transparency and accountability will not only restore public trust but also ensure that resources are channeled to the areas that matter most.

Education and Skills Development: Investing in quality education and skills training will equip our youth to compete in a global economy and contribute meaningfully to national development.

Foreign Investment and Partnerships: Building partnerships with international allies to attract investments in technology, energy, and infrastructure can fast-track our economic recovery.

Botu in his address also called for unity and patience.

“Fellow Nigerians, let us remember that true transformation takes time. The road ahead may be tough, but we must not waver in our resolve,” he said .

“Each of us has a role to play in rebuilding Nigeria, whether as a farmer, teacher, entrepreneur, or public servant.

“Let us hold our leaders accountable while also supporting them in their quest to create a better future for all.”

According to him, President Tinubu has demonstrated the will to lead Nigeria towards recovery, but he cannot do it alone.

He pointed out that it is the collective responsibility of Nigerians to rise above political, ethnic, and religious differences to support policies that promote the greater good.

“Let us remain steadfast and patient, knowing that the sacrifices we make today will yield a brighter and more prosperous Nigeria tomorrow,” Botu said.

“The journey may be long, but with unity, determination, and unwavering hope, we will emerge stronger. Together, we can rebuild the Nigeria of our dreams.”