Tinubu Says He Nearly Quit 2023 Race Amid Election Pressures

• Mar 30, 2025

President Bola Tinubu has revealed that he almost withdrew from the 2023 presidential race after facing intense pressure and doubt during his campaign. Speaking at a special Iftar dinner in his honor at the Aso Rock Presidential Villa, Abuja, he reflected on a moment when he questioned his decision to contest.

Tinubu’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, released a statement summarizing the President’s speech, in which he expressed gratitude to Nigerians for their support and prayers on his 73rd birthday.

The President recalled an incident during the campaign when a close relative visited him in the middle of the night and questioned his decision to run.

“People close to me knew the odds were against me. One night at 3:30 a.m., someone came to my living room asking for N50,000 to buy food for our uncle. He told me, ‘The currency is gone because of you. People are struggling to access cash. Even our wealthy uncle doesn’t have N10,000. Why are you doing this?’”

Tinubu said he gave him the money, but the relative doubted his chances. “As he walked out, he turned to me and said, ‘I don’t think you will make it.’ I replied, ‘I will make it.’”

The President admitted that moment made him reconsider his ambition, but the encouragement of allies like former Katsina State Governor Aminu Masari helped him stay the course.

Beyond the campaign struggles, Tinubu acknowledged the challenges he faced upon assuming office, including economic difficulties. He defended his decision to remove the fuel subsidy on his first day in office, saying it was necessary for Nigeria’s long-term stability.

“The hallmark of a great leader is making the right decision at the right time. That was the day I declared the subsidy was gone. The next day, I was criticized heavily, but I stood firm because I knew it was the right thing to do.”

Vice President Kashim Shettima praised Tinubu’s leadership, stating that his policies had tackled issues previous governments had avoided, including fuel subsidy fraud and unstable exchange rates. Senate President Godswill Akpabio also commended Tinubu’s boldness, calling him Nigeria’s most audacious president.

Other political figures, including Imo State Governor Hope Uzodinma and Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives Benjamin Kalu, lauded Tinubu’s commitment to national unity and economic reform.

As Tinubu marked his 73rd birthday, he expressed gratitude to those who stood by him during difficult times and reaffirmed his commitment to steering Nigeria toward progress. The event was attended by key government officials, business leaders, and religious figures, with prayers offered for the President and the country.