Tinubu Inherited Bankruptcy from Previous Buhari, Says Ribadu

In a recent revelation that has yet to be confirmed, Nuhu Ribadu, the National Security Adviser, has made a significant assertion regarding the state of Nigeria’s finances. According to Ribadu, President Bola Tinubu has inherited a financially beleaguered country from his predecessor, Muhammadu Buhari. This claim, if true, paints a challenging picture for the current administration.

During his address at the Chief of Defence Intelligence Annual Conference 2023 in Abuja, Ribadu highlighted the difficulties faced by the Tinubu-led government. The theme of the conference, “Leveraging Defence Diplomacy and Effective Regional Collaboration for Enhanced National Security,” brought together key figures, including the Minister of Defence, Abubakar Badaru, and other high-ranking officials.

Ribadu’s statement suggests that the Tinubu administration has stepped into a role burdened with financial constraints, citing a situation akin to bankruptcy and an empty treasury as the legacy left by the Buhari administration. This scenario, he says, has significantly impacted budgetary allocations, especially in areas crucial to national security and defence.

Despite these challenges, Ribadu assured attendees that the federal government remains committed to maintaining a robust and viable defence management system. He acknowledged the budgetary constraints, describing the fiscal situation as serious and indicating that current revenues are primarily directed towards servicing past debts.

The former chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission expressed confidence in the armed forces’ ability to address Nigeria’s security challenges. He noted that there have been tangible improvements in security both within Nigeria and in its international engagements.

The claim of inheriting a bankrupt country is a critical one, especially given Nigeria’s complex socio-economic landscape. Ribadu also touched upon the impact of coups in neighbouring countries, underscoring the need for strong defence diplomacy to navigate these regional challenges.

In conclusion, while Ribadu’s remarks suggest that President Tinubu has inherited a financially distressed nation from his predecessor, this claim remains unconfirmed. As the new administration navigates these alleged fiscal challenges, the focus remains on bolstering national security and ensuring stability, both domestically and in the wider region.