By Emeka Blast 
Pres. Bola Ahmed Tinubu warned against anything that might divert his attention
They gathered in Abuja on Tuesday, May 13, 2025, for the launch of Alhaji Sule Lamido’s autobiography, Being True to Myself. President Bola Tinubu used the occasion to say he is open to legitimate criticism, but will not allow distractions to derail his mission for Nigeria. The well-attended event featured former President Olusegun Obasanjo, ex-Vice Presidents Atiku Abubakar and Namadi Sambo, and other prominent figures. From the podium, the Minister of Information, Mohammed Idris, spoke on Tinubu’s behalf.
Through Idris, President Tinubu acknowledged that his administration’s reforms are demanding but stressed that they are now delivering greater stability and positive results. He noted that “constructive criticism” is valuable because it fosters democratic engagement, but warned against anything that might divert him from advancing the economy, enhancing security, and promoting national unity. He also praised the military and security agencies for their counter-terrorism efforts, assuring Nigerians that every measure will be taken to safeguard citizens and protect the country’s territorial integrity.
The launch of Alhaji Sule Lamido’s autobiography seems to have been a significant event, bringing together key political figures in Nigeria. President Tinubu’s message about being open to criticism while staying focused on his mission is commendable, but it also raises questions about what he considers “legitimate” criticism. It’s interesting to see how he balances the need for democratic engagement with the desire to avoid distractions. The emphasis on reforms delivering stability and positive results is promising, but I wonder how ordinary Nigerians feel about these changes. The praise for the military’s efforts is important, but are there specific measures being taken to address the root causes of insecurity? Overall, it’s a strong statement, but I’d like to hear more about the tangible impacts of these reforms on everyday life. What steps are being taken to ensure that these efforts truly benefit all Nigerians?