"I didn’t come to look for money and exploit the situation; I came to work. I asked for the votes, and Nigerians gave them to me" ~ President Tinubu.

President Bola Tinubu’s statement, “I didn’t come to look for money and exploit the situation; I came to work. I asked for the votes, and Nigerians gave them to me”, conveys his commitment to public service and his vision for leadership in Nigeria. This declaration sheds light on his personal motivations for seeking the presidency and addresses the concerns many Nigerians have about corruption and self-interest in politics.

Emphasis on Service-Oriented Leadership: Tinubu’s assertion that he did not enter politics to "look for money" signals his focus on serving the country rather than personal enrichment. In a country where political office is often seen as a pathway to wealth and influence, this statement is intended to distinguish his administration as one that prioritizes the interests of the people. It suggests that he is driven by a sense of duty to uplift the nation rather than take advantage of Nigeria's resources for personal gain

.Accountability to the People: The phrase, “I asked for the votes, and Nigerians gave them to me,” reflects Tinubu’s acknowledgment of the trust the electorate placed in him during the 2023 presidential election. By framing his victory in this way, he underscores the responsibility that comes with the mandate given by the people. This places him in a position of accountability, where his actions must reflect the promises he made during the campaign and the expectations Nigerians have for his leadership.

A Response to Criticism and Public Skepticism: Tinubu’s statement can be viewed as a response to critics who question the motivations of political leaders in Nigeria, particularly about corruption and self-serving practices. Historically, many Nigerian politicians have been accused of using public office for personal enrichment, contributing to a legacy of mistrust between the government and the citizens. By declaring that he did not come to "exploit the situation," Tinubu aims to distance himself from this narrative and establish a reputation for integrity and dedication to national development.

Focus on National Development: His words reflect a broader intention to lead with purpose and deliver on his campaign promises, particularly in light of the economic challenges facing the country. Since taking office, Tinubu has embarked on a series of economic reforms, such as the removal of the fuel subsidy and the unification of the exchange rate, aimed at stabilizing the economy and fostering growth. These actions, though initially painful for many Nigerians, are framed by the president as necessary steps to improve the country’s long-term prospects. His statement emphasizes that he is here to "work"—to address these issues head-on and make the difficult decisions needed to turn the economy around.

"I didn’t come to look for money and exploit the situation; I came to work. I asked for the votes, and Nigerians gave them to me"

~ President Tinubu.

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— Nigeria Stories (@NigeriaStories) September 20, 2024

Establishing a Legacy: Tinubu’s words also suggest a desire to leave a positive and lasting legacy in Nigerian politics. By distancing himself from the common perception of politicians as wealth-seekers, he is setting the tone for his presidency as one focused on progress, accountability, and nation-building. His statement implies that his administration will prioritize the needs of the average Nigerian over elite interests, and that he intends to take bold steps to improve the quality of life for all citizens.

Public Perception and Political Messaging: The statement reflects Tinubu’s understanding of the political environment in Nigeria, where citizens are often frustrated with government leaders who fail to deliver on promises or are involved in corruption scandals. By aligning himself with a message of service and hard work, he is attempting to reassure Nigerians that he is different and committed to real change. This type of messaging is key to maintaining public confidence, especially during a period of economic difficulty and social tension.

Call for Patience and Understanding: Tinubu’s remark can also be interpreted as a subtle request for patience from the Nigerian people. As his administration implements reforms that may initially be unpopular—such as the removal of subsidies that have led to higher fuel prices—he may be reminding citizens that his ultimate goal is not to exploit the current situation but to fix long-standing issues. His reference to coming to “work” indicates that he is prepared to make tough choices and expects Nigerians to give him the time and space to do so.

President Tinubu’s statement highlights his commitment to the presidency as a position of service, not personal gain. By positioning himself as a leader who is here to work and deliver results, rather than exploit Nigeria's resources for wealth, he aims to set a tone of integrity and accountability for his administration. The declaration is not only a message to his critics but also a promise to the Nigerian people that he intends to act in their best interests, fulfilling the trust they placed in him during the election.