Buhari: I'll make tough decisions in 2016

Buhari: I'll make tough decisions in 2016
By Isiaka Wakili | Publish Date: Dec 22 2015 4:12PM | Updated Date: Dec 22 2015 4:14PM 

Buhari: I'll make tough decisions in 2016
President Muhammadu Buhari has declared that his administration will make tough decisions in the 2016 fiscal year.
 He, however, said that this does not necessarily mean increasing the level of pain already being experienced by most Nigerians.
 Buhari said this Monday while presenting the 2016 budget to the National Assembly.
 He said "Indeed, tough decisions will have to be made. But this does not necessarily mean increasing the level of pain already being experienced by most Nigerians".
 He said he was aware of the problems many Nigerians currently had in accessing foreign exchange for their various purposes "--from our traders and business operators who rely on imported inputs; to manufacturers needing to import sophisticated equipment and spare parts; to our airlines operators who need foreign exchange to meet their international regulatory obligations; to the financial services sector and capital markets who are key actors in the global arena".
 Buhari, who noted that these were clearly due to the current inadequacies in the supply of foreign exchange to Nigerians who needed it, said he was however assured by the Governor of Central Bank that "the bank is currently fine-tuning its foreign exchange management to introduce some flexibility and encourage additional in-flow of foreign currency to help ease the pressure". 
He said: "We are carefully assessing our exchange rate regime keeping in mind our willingness to attract foreign investors but at the same time, managing and controlling inflation to level that will not harm the average Nigerians. Nigeria is open for business. But the interest of all Nigerians must be protected. Indeed, tough decisions will have to be made. But this does not necessarily mean increasing the level of pain already being experienced by most Nigerians.
"So, to the investors, business owners and industrialists, we are aware of your pains. To the farmers, traders and entrepreneurs, we also hear you. The status quo cannot continue. The rent seeking will stop. The artificial current demand will end. Our monetary, fiscal and social development policies are aligned".
The president said in spite of the global economic uncertainties, the government must remain steadfast in her commitment to steering Nigeria back to greatness.
 According to him, the Nigerian economy needs to move away from dependency on oil.
Buhari said: "Our growth must be inclusive. Nigerians must be part of the growth story. As a Government, we shall deliver security, jobs and infrastructure. This is the right of all Nigerians.
 "I know many people will say 'I have heard this before'. Indeed, trust in government, due to the abuse and negligence of the past, is at an all-time low. This means we must go back to basics. Our actions will speak for us. My team of dedicated, committed and patriotic Nigerians is well aware of the task ahead and I can assure you that we are taking on the challenge.
 "We will not betray the trust reposed in us. We will welcome and be responsive to your feedback and criticisms. We are here to serve. And indeed, Nigerians will get the service they have longed for and which they rightly deserve. We, as a government, cannot do it alone. We will require the support of all civil servants, the organised labour, industry groups, the press and of course, our religious and traditional institutions. This is a call for all of us to stand and serve our country.
 "This budget represents a major step in delivering a new opportunity for Nigeria. It demonstrates our confident optimism that despite the challenging times, we have the will, resourcefulness and commitment to deliver prosperity to our people. And by the grace of Almighty God and the sheer will and determination of the Nigerian people, we will come out stronger and more united than ever".
Read more at http://dailytrust.com.ng/news/news/buhari-i-ll-make-tough-decisions-in-2016/125587.html#RLHETfd4ehhDROVQ.99