President Bola Tinubu says he endured intense political pressure and challenges during the 2023 presidential election campaign but remained steadfast in his pursuit of the presidency.
Tinubu spoke on Friday while hosting state governors who visited him to celebrate Eid-el-Kabir and the third anniversary of his administration.
The president thanked the governors for taking time out of their schedules to visit him despite their responsibilities in their respective states.
“It is a very great joy because as leaders in your various states and communities, you should be home receiving visitors and paying homage,” he said.
“To find time to come here this afternoon, this evening, is so refreshing and a blessing for all of us.”
Tinubu prayed that the sacrifices made by the governors would be rewarded.
“May the sacrifice you make be blessed and accepted by Almighty Allah,” he said.
THE ROAD TO 2023
Reflecting on his journey to the presidency, Tinubu described the 2023 election as one of the most difficult periods of his political career.
“At the time, I faced the challenge of trying to become the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” he said.
“It was very, very challenging. It was tough for those who were in the party with me.”
The president said some members of his party remained loyal throughout the process despite the difficulties.
“Some kept faith and instead of dodging the bullets, I took it,” he said.
“I took the punch on the chin. A very hard one.”
Tinubu added that he kept many of his campaign strategies to himself during the electioneering period.
“I didn’t disclose to anybody what I would do,” he said.
He commended party members and supporters who remained committed to the APC during the campaign.
“Many of you took the risk and waited long because of the party platform and everything,” he said.
“We survived.”
