Buhari: Aso Rock hasn’t alienated me

President Muhammadu Buhari says living in the state house has not alienated him from the pains of Nigerians.

Speaking at the signing of the 2016 budget on Friday, Buhari said the process of changing the Nigerian economy might not be easy, but that he would work with honesty and dedication.

He signed the budget into law at 12:32pm, and the exercise was witnessed by Yemi Osinbajo, vice president, Bukola Saraki; senate president, Yakubu Dogara; speaker of the house of representatives, and John Oyegun, chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

“It gives me great pleasure today to sign the first full-year budget of this administration into law,” Femi Adesina, Buhari’s spokesman, quoted him as saying.

“I commend the sacrifice, resilience, toughness of all Nigerians, who have continued to have hope and confidence of a great future.

“Living in the state house does not alienate me from your daily struggles. I read the newspapers and listen to the TV and radio news. I hear your cries. I share your pains.

“This government is like no other. We are absolutely committed to changing the structure of the Nigerian economy once and for all.

“I can’t promise that it will be an easy journey, but can assure this government you have freely elected will work with honesty and dedication

“The budget is intended to signpost a renewal of our commitment to restoring the budget as a serious article of faith with the Nigerian people.

“I shall speak in more details about the overall economic and social policies of the govt in my address on May 29, God willing.”