Since the APC-led government came into power last year, they have been accused of not doing enough in the battle against Boko Haram. The President has also been criticized for travelling heavily. In an interview by President Buhari on AlJazeera, Mr President looks to correct some of the incorrect stories put forward.
The President speaks on the fall in the price of oil and the disadvantages it has put Nigeria in as well as the role OPEC has looked to play. He also speaks on countries who are not currently members of OPEC and the benefits they gain. When asked if Nigeria shall look to exit OPEC to also gain these, he asserts that “certainly, under my leadership. Nigeria shall not withdraw from OPEC.”
The President speaks on some of the economic decisions that have been taken and the idea being to strengthen the Naira. He argues that allowing the dollar to easily be bought gives way to Nigerians spending heavily on rice and toothpicks which they do not need to do. He also claims that ministries have been ordered to present important services which need foreign exchange for instance pharmaceutical firms on a quarterly basis.
He goes on to talk about the steps his government has taken to reduce costs. He also suggests there is an element of sabotage in relation to the budget. When asked on why Nigeria’s security vote budget is so huge, President Buhari argues that it is essential for the fight against Boko Haram and militants in the Niger Delta.
He also speaks on the Islamic Terrorist Coalition Force being set up by Saudi Arabia and why Nigeria shall join the group as well as the West African Multinational Joint Task Force.