President Bola Tinubu has attributed his emergence as Nigeria’s leader to divine intervention, urging Nigerians who believe in God to remain faithful and thankful despite the country’s ongoing economic and social challenges.

The president made the remarks on Friday while addressing the 15th National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting of the All Progressives Congress (APC) at the State House Conference Centre in Abuja.

Reflecting on his journey to the presidency, Mr Tinubu said his path was marked by formidable obstacles, describing his victory in the 2023 general election as the product of perseverance and God’s will.

He recalled that the election period coincided with some of the most difficult moments for Nigerians, including food shortages, widespread fuel scarcity and the controversial currency redesign policy, which resulted in severe cash shortages and long queues at petrol stations nationwide.

According to the president, the hardship experienced during that period tested the resilience of Nigerians and underscored the scale of the challenges facing the country.

“I faced obstacles on my path to the presidency,” Mr Tinubu said, noting that many citizens endured extreme hardship, with some unable to afford a single meal a day.

He described the period as one of intense social and economic strain, adding that the difficulties were not insignificant but part of the painful journey to the polls.

Despite the setbacks, the president said his eventual victory was divinely ordained.

“God brought us here. I am a symbol of that God because, without Him, I wouldn’t be here,” he told party leaders. He pointed to what he described as “wildfire” conditions during the campaign, including fuel queues, currency redesign chaos and hunger caused by cash scarcity, saying lives were lost in the process.

President Tinubu said the enormity of the challenges highlighted the need for gratitude and faith, calling on Nigerians who believe in God’s work to remain steadfast and thankful, even amid prevailing difficulties.

He also stressed the importance of unity, tolerance and resilience in sustaining Nigeria’s democracy, warning that it must not be allowed to fail.

“We must continue to be resolute that this democracy we have taken into our hands must not fail,” the president said.

Emphasising inclusiveness in leadership, Mr Tinubu said governance requires making room for others, especially in difficult times.

The president further cautioned against the imposition of will in governance, describing it as a cause for concern, and reiterated his belief that leadership is ultimately determined by God.