APGA National Chairman, Barr. Sly Ezeokenwa view and some ratings of the
first year of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s presidency in Nigeria – NDUKA ANYANWU
In a swift rating, and as everyone in Nigeria is aware, there have been lots of reforms by the present administration of President Ahmed Bola Tinubu, and among them as opined by the APGA National Chairman Barr. Sly Ezeokenwa include:
Economic Reforms
- Removal of fuel subsidy and unification of the naira’s multiple exchange rates has freed up public funds for reallocation to areas designed to spur growth and
economic recovery but has also raised the price of petrol by over 200% and driven millions of Nigerians deeper into poverty - Targeted interventions such as the Student Loan Scheme and the Consumer Credit Scheme have
been implemented to mitigate the social impact of the reforms
Security
- Tinubu’s administration prioritized enhancing national security, with increased funding for security agencies and strategic initiatives to combat insurgency and banditry
- Despite these efforts, the persistence of security challenges remains a significant concern for many Nigerians, therefore, it becomes imperative for the
Presidency to consolidate on their gains in this sector.
Infrastructure
- The government is believed to be truly living up to expectations in the area of infrastructure – for example, transportation, Roads, Power, etc.
- The government has ‘face-lifted’ major roads in Abuja city center and satellite towns and kicked off the construction of Lagos-Calabar Coastal Road, which will open up the economy between West-north and south, also other parts of the
nation are one way or the other receiving such gains such as Bayelsa, etc. These will reduce congestion, and facilitate the movement of goods and people. - Power and Energy- Having invested and liberalized the power generation, transmission, and distribution infrastructure to address Nigeria’s electricity
challenges, this will improve access to reliable and affordable electricity, as well as support industrial growth.
It’s important to note that these are some areas of focus for infrastructure development,
the specific projects and initiatives would depend on the priorities and policies set by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. However, the actual outcomes and assessments of these infrastructure developments under review would further require evaluation based on the implementation and impact of the initiatives undertaken.
Public Opinion
- Public opinion on Tinubu’s first year in office is deeply divided
- While some applaud his proactive approach and long-term vision, others express
frustration over the slow pace of tangible improvements in their daily lives - The social impact of his policies, particularly on the most vulnerable populations, remains a contentious issue. But truth be told, the Administration will have to reflect
on various challenges faced by Nigerians and consolidate on their strategic plans in getting things right for the good of the citizenry.
This will not only affirm President Ahmed Tinubu’s quest to navigate the country to a greater height but also assure the citizenry of the Renewed Hope Agenda.
Note: This brief article is written on behalf of Barrister Sly Ezeokenwa, the APGA National Chairman.