Tinubu’s 100 Days: Navigating the challenges, high expectations

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu achieved his lifelong aspiration of becoming Nigeria’s president when he was declared the president-elect of the February 25, 2023, presidential election. On May 29, 2023, during his inauguration as the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, he wasted no time in expressing his commitment to hit the ground running. In his address, he humbly requested not to be pitied, emphasizing that he had actively pursued the presidency. President Tinubu’s first 100 days in office were marked on September 5, 2023. However, an in-depth assessment of his administration within this relatively short timeframe may not fully reflect the promises he made to the Nigerian people. It is essential to consider the challenges inherited from the previous administration under Muhammadu Buhari, which endured eight years of economic difficulties. President Tinubu had pledged to alleviate the burdens faced by the poor, and this commitment generated enthusiasm and high expectations among the populace. One notable policy shift was the sudden removal of the controversial oil subsidy without accompanying palliative measures mentioned during his inauguration speech. Following this move, Nigerian oil marketers and fuel racketeers swiftly increased the pump price of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) from N186/ltr to N575/ltr and later to N617/ltr. Their rationale was that the price adjustment was a response to global oil prices and associated costs. Additionally, changes in the exchange rate led to a depreciation of the Naira against other currencies. Subsequently, Nigerians experienced increased living costs, including rising food prices, transportation expenses; rent hikes by landlords, and higher school fees, among other challenges. Before he assumed office Nigerians had eagerly awaited the 2023 general elections as an opportunity for change. Youth and political sentiment were strongly geared toward effecting a transformation in various aspects of the country’s political landscape. Some politicians capitalized on the public’s anger and youth mobilization, switching parties they viewed as more conducive to their political ambitions. It is widely acknowledged that the previous administration, led by former President Buhari, faced significant criticism for its handling of the economy. While promising change, the administration was perceived to have delivered misery and despair, corruption, which the government pledged to combat, appeared to flourish. While it is essential to address economic challenges and leadership issues in Nigeria, this article primarily focuses on the treatment of individuals who have served the nation diligently and those, who upon identifying institutional weaknesses or leadership shortcomings, have sought to enrich themselves. Recent developments in the political arena bring into question the treatment of individuals like Mr. Godwin Emefiele, the suspended CBN Governor, and Abdulrasheed Bawa, the suspended Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). Both face various charges, possibly related to their actions while in office during the previous administration. It is important to recognize the valuable contributions of these individuals during their tenure. For instance, Godwin Emefiele, as the CBN Governor, played a pivotal role in propping up the economy during times of fiscal uncertainty. His interventions and policies were instrumental in averting economic crises, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. Similarly, Abdulrasheed Bawa demonstrated zeal and effectiveness in his role as the anti-corruption czar. However, they may have inadvertently crossed ethical boundaries while executing their duties as directed by the Commander-in-Chief (C-in-C) in alignment with political agenda. For example, Godwin Emefiele’s foray into politics and a controversial Naira redesign policy attracted political criticism, while Abdulrasheed Bawa’s aggressive pursuit of corruption cases earned him powerful enemies. While this discussion does not intend to justify their actions or inactions in office, it however raises questions about the treatment they currently face. Is this treatment an incentive or disincentive for individuals to serve their nation? President Tinubu’s administration has already made bold policy moves, although they have resulted in unexpected hardships for Nigerians. With the appointment of his cabinet after nearly 80 days in office, Nigerians anticipate selfless dedication from him and his team. Concerns have arisen regarding the inclusion of certain politicians, including former governors with underwhelming performance records, in the cabinet. Nigerians hope to avoid a repeat of past experiences, where ministers seemed ill-prepared, leaving the Central Bank of Nigeria to take on responsibilities beyond its mandate to prevent economic collapse. Given the current economic challenges, Nigerians expect President Tinubu to uphold his commitment to hold non-performing ministers accountable. This approach should ensure that the Central Bank of Nigeria can fulfil its constitutional responsibilities as outlined in BOFIA 2007 without unnecessary political interference. Preserving the CBN’s independence is essential for effective monetary policy and economic stability. In conclusion, while it is crucial to address economic woes and leadership issues, it is equally important to safeguard institutions like the Central Bank of Nigeria from unwarranted political interference. Nigeria’s economy depends on CBN’s stability and effective functioning, and it is essential to protect this national heritage. *Chisom Adindu writes from Umuahia, Abia State

What Nigerians expect from Tinubu’s new cabinet

In a momentous ceremony that marked a significant transition for Nigeria, President Bola Tinubu on Monday inaugurated a new cohort of ministers to consolidate his presidency. With the swearing-in of these individuals into their respective offices, Nigerians are now looking ahead with a mixture of hope and anticipation, more so that, this time, like his predecessor, he did not wait for almost a year to form his cabinet. No doubt, the responsibilities bestowed upon these new ministers are immense, and the citizens’ expectations on them are equally high. Even though Tinubu had inherited a myriad of challenges, ranging from a lame economy to security concerns, Nigerians are fervently hoping that this new cabinet will rise to the occasion and lead the country towards a brighter future. One of the most pressing issues on the minds of Nigerians is the economy. The COVID-19 pandemic dealt a severe blow to the global economy with Nigeria getting its fair share and this has exacerbated existing challenges such as high unemployment rates and inflation. As the new ministers assume their roles, citizens are yearning for innovative economic policies that will stimulate growth and provide much-needed jobs. They expect these ministers to engage in strategic partnerships, attract foreign investments, and diversify the economy beyond oil dependency. A clear roadmap for infrastructural development, with a focus on power generation, transportation, and technological advancement, is eagerly awaited. Nigerians are hopeful that the new cabinet will foster an environment that supports small and medium-sized businesses, driving entrepreneurship and creating a sustainable economic ecosystem. Another paramount concern is security. In recent years, Nigeria has faced an upsurge in security challenges, from insurgency and banditry to kidnapping and communal conflicts. The citizens’ security and safety are non-negotiable, and they look to the new ministers to demonstrate unwavering commitment to restoring stability. Nigerians anticipate comprehensive reforms within the security sector, including equipping and adequately training law enforcement agencies, intelligence sharing, and collaboration with international partners to tackle transnational crimes. A holistic approach that addresses the root causes of these security issues, such as poverty and lack of education, is eagerly awaited. The state of healthcare in Nigeria has also been a cause for concern. The COVID-19 pandemic exposed the vulnerabilities of the healthcare system, shedding light on the inadequate infrastructure, limited access to quality medical care, and the brain drain of healthcare professionals. The citizens expect the newly inaugurated Minister of Health, Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate, to prioritize healthcare reform, ensuring that adequate funding is allocated to build and upgrade healthcare facilities, procure essential medical equipment, and provide training and incentives to healthcare workers. A robust healthcare system not only safeguards the population’s health but also bolsters the nation’s overall productivity and development. Education is another arena where Nigerians are looking for transformative changes. Despite being blessed with a young and vibrant population, the education sector has suffered from inadequate funding, outdated curriculum, and a lack of access to quality education in many regions. The new ministers are being entrusted with the responsibility of revamping the education system, from primary to tertiary levels. Citizens hope for the implementation of policies that prioritize teacher training, curriculum modernization, and the integration of technology in education. Additionally, special attention needs to be given to regions where educational disparities are most pronounced, ensuring that every Nigerian child has equal access to quality education. Corruption remains a significant impediment to Nigeria’s progress. Nigerians are looking to the new cabinet to not only maintain the anti-corruption drive but to intensify efforts in ensuring transparency and accountability in public office. Effective utilization of resources, strict adherence to due process, and the swift prosecution of corrupt individuals are the expectations of the citizens. Furthermore, they anticipate the implementation of policies that promote ethical governance and discourage corrupt practices at all levels of government. Infrastructural development, particularly in the areas of power generation, transportation, and information technology, is crucial for Nigeria’s growth. Citizens eagerly await the unveiling of comprehensive plans that will address the longstanding issues of inadequate power supply, inadequate road networks, and poor internet connectivity. These are fundamental elements that underpin economic development and enhance the quality of life for the population. In the realm of foreign policy, Nigerians hope for a government that will foster strong diplomatic relationships with other nations while advancing the country’s interests on the global stage. Economic partnerships, trade agreements, and international collaborations are seen as critical for Nigeria’s growth and development. The citizens look to the new ministers to represent the nation effectively in international forums and negotiations, projecting a positive image of Nigeria to the world. In conclusion, as President Bola Tinubu’s new ministers assume their respective offices, they should understand that they’re stepping into roles of immense responsibility and great expectation. Nigerians envision a future marked by economic prosperity, enhanced security, improved healthcare and education systems, eradication of corruption, and infrastructural development. The challenges ahead are daunting, but the citizens’ hope and optimism are unwavering. It is incumbent upon Tinubu and his cabinet to translate these hopes into concrete actions, demonstrating their commitment to serving the best interests of Nigeria and its people. As the nation watches, their decisions and actions will determine the course of Nigeria’s journey towards a brighter and more prosperous future.