“It Made Me Stubborn”: Tinubu Opens Up on How Media Criticism Shaped His Early Days in Office

President Bola Tinubu has acknowledged that intense scrutiny from the media and public commentators influenced his early days in office, admitting the pressure initially made him “somewhat stubborn” as his administration began.

Speaking on leadership and decision-making, Tinubu revealed that reading newspapers every morning is an “addiction” he rarely skips, keeping him connected to public opinion even when he doesn’t read every story in full. He explained that strong criticism from newspapers and opinion leaders at the start of his administration shaped his early reactions. However, he emphasized that leadership ultimately requires courage and responsibility, especially when difficult decisions must be made.

Tinubu stressed that governance demands timely action, noting that failure to take necessary decisions at the right moment amounts to failure in leadership. He added that while public opinion remains important, leaders must stay focused on decisions they believe are necessary for national progress. Social media reactions were largely critical, with many questioning his performance on campaign promises.

Key Points

Tinubu says media criticism made him “somewhat stubborn” early in office.
Reads newspapers daily as an “addiction” to stay connected.
Leadership requires courage, timely decisions despite pressure.
Failure to act at the right moment is leadership failure.
Social media critical: “Where’s the consistent light you promised us?”

Tinubu opens up about the heat of early office, admitting stubbornness born of criticism, while insisting that leaders must push forward, even when the headlines burn.

Sources: Presidential Remarks