President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has declared that he will not be intimidated by opposition voices, reaffirming his commitment to economic reforms, national unity, and democratic principles during a high-level meeting at the State House Abuja.
The meeting, held on Thursday, April 16, 2026, brought together leaders and coordinators of the Renewed Hope Ambassadors (RHA), led by Hope Uzodimma. It also attracted key political figures including Vice President Kashim Shettima, governors, party leaders, and former public office holders.
In a strong response to critics, Tinubu dismissed opposition pressure, insisting he remains focused on governance. “They want to scare me off? It’s a lie… One thing that you need from me is a promise: I won’t run away from the affairs of the nation,” he said.
The President reaffirmed that his administration is committed to replacing long-standing political and economic systems that have hindered national growth. According to him, these reforms are designed to create broader participation in the economy and improve opportunities for Nigerians, particularly the poor and vulnerable.
He acknowledged that the ongoing changes may come with initial difficulties but stressed that they are necessary to achieve long-term prosperity. Tinubu maintained that his government’s vision is centered on inclusive growth, ensuring that every Nigerian has a stake in the country’s future regardless of background or region.
On governance, the President emphasized the importance of the rule of law and respect for democratic institutions. He warned against disobedience to court orders, stating that adherence to legal frameworks is essential for national stability and development.
“We cannot submit to disobedience of a lawful order of the court; we must embrace the judiciary, whether it favours us or not,” he said, adding that democracy must be upheld through the separation of powers and collective responsibility.
Tinubu also called on members of the Renewed Hope Ambassadors to intensify grassroots engagement, urging them to take the message of his administration’s reforms to communities across the country. He described the group as a critical force in mobilising citizens and promoting national unity.
“You represent the conscience of a nation that wants to break the shackles of poverty and hopelessness,” he told the delegation, encouraging them to sustain their mobilisation efforts.
The meeting was attended by several governors, including Mai Mala Buni, Mohammed Inuwa Yahaya, Nasir Idris, Francis Nwifuru, Sheriff Oborevwori, Usman Ododo, Abiodun Oyebanji, Hyacinth Alia, Agbu Kefas, Monday Okpebholo, and Uba Sani.
Also present were the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Nentawe Goshwe Yilwatda, former governors including Aminu Bello Masari, Ifeanyi Okowa, and Tanko Al-Makura, as well as former Senate President Anyim Pius Anyim and APC National Secretary Ajibola Bashiru.
Earlier, Governor Uzodimma briefed the President on the progress of the Renewed Hope Ambassadors initiative, noting that structures have been established across local governments and wards, with ongoing grassroots mobilisation and data collection.
Former Katsina State Governor Aminu Bello Masari also commended the President’s leadership, describing him as a reformer willing to take difficult but necessary decisions for the country’s future.
Tinubu assured Nigerians that the country remains on a path toward transformation, urging citizens not to be discouraged by opposition narratives. He maintained that with unity, resilience, and sustained reforms, Nigeria can achieve lasting prosperity.
The meeting comes at a critical time as Nigerians continue to grapple with economic challenges and rising living costs, placing greater focus on the administration’s ability to translate reforms into tangible improvements in everyday life.
