Nigerians' Expectations as President Tinubu Resumes Work from Two-Week Leave
President Bola Tinubu resumed work at the Aso Rock Presidential Villa on October 21, 2024, following a two-week vacation spent in the United Kingdom and France. His return comes at a critical time for the nation, as Nigerians grapple with multiple pressing issues. Upon his resumption, the President was seen receiving a briefing from the Chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service, Zacch Adedeji.
The Weight of Expectations
As President Tinubu returns to his duties, Nigerians are keenly aware of the significant challenges facing the country. From economic hardships exacerbated by bad policies to the persistent threats of insurgency, citizens are looking for decisive leadership. Many believe that these challenges require urgent and comprehensive solutions, especially given the country’s declining security situation, the lingering effects of corruption, and electoral manipulations.
Key Issues Nigerians Expect President Tinubu to Address
To tackle these challenges, Nigerians expect the President to focus on the following critical areas:
1. Economic Hardship and Inflation
The rising cost of living has become unbearable for many Nigerians. The economy is struggling under the weight of inflation, unemployment, and poor fiscal policies that have disproportionately affected the most vulnerable. The withdrawal of fuel subsidies, for example, led to higher transportation costs and an increase in the price of goods and services.
Solution: The President needs to implement policies that stimulate economic growth and reduce inflation. Immediate measures could include stabilizing the Naira, fostering private sector growth through favorable policies, and introducing tax reforms that ease the burden on small businesses and the middle class.
2. Corruption
Corruption remains one of the primary impediments to Nigeria’s development. Despite promises of reform, corruption still pervades government institutions, leading to mismanagement of resources and slow implementation of key projects.
Solution: Strengthening anti-corruption agencies, ensuring accountability at all levels of government, and introducing technology-driven transparency measures in public procurement and budgeting processes can help mitigate corruption. President Tinubu should also push for more high-profile convictions of corrupt public officials.
3. Election Manipulations
The manipulation of elections has created widespread distrust in the democratic process. The 2023 elections were marred by allegations of voter suppression, vote-buying, and collusion between political elites and election officials.
Solution: Electoral reforms that guarantee transparency and fairness must be a top priority. The government should support the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) with more resources to ensure free, fair, and credible elections. Also, President Tinubu must demonstrate a commitment to democratic values by ensuring that future elections are devoid of manipulation.
4. Insecurity and Insurgency
Insecurity remains a significant issue, especially with the continued attacks by Boko Haram and other insurgent groups in the northeast. Additionally, banditry and kidnappings in other parts of the country continue to create fear and uncertainty among the populace.
Solution: There is an urgent need for comprehensive security sector reforms. This includes better funding for the military, improving intelligence gathering, and fostering regional collaborations to counter terrorism. President Tinubu must also prioritize the welfare of security personnel and equip them with modern tools to combat insurgency effectively.
5. Boko Haram Attacks and Security Failures
Boko Haram’s persistent attacks have exposed major weaknesses in Nigeria’s security architecture. While the group’s influence has been curtailed in some areas, they continue to launch devastating attacks, particularly in the northern regions.
Solution: In addition to military interventions, addressing the root causes of terrorism—such as poverty, illiteracy, and marginalization—should be a priority. The government must also invest in deradicalization programs for those willing to abandon extremism and ensure that communities affected by Boko Haram attacks receive the necessary support to rebuild.
6. Delay in the 2025 Budget Presentation
There has been growing concern over the delay in the presentation of the 2025 appropriation bill, which should already be in progress. The National Assembly has drawn attention to the need for a timely Medium-Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF) and Fiscal Strategy Paper, both of which are essential for proper budget planning.
Solution: The President must prioritize the timely submission of the MTEF and the 2025 budget to the National Assembly. Ensuring that these documents are presented and deliberated on in a structured manner will enable better fiscal planning and prevent last-minute rushes that often compromise the quality of budgetary processes.
Conclusion
President Bola Tinubu’s return from his two-week leave presents a pivotal moment for Nigeria. The challenges facing the nation—from economic struggles to rampant insecurity—demand immediate and comprehensive action. Nigerians are looking to their President for decisive leadership, clear policies, and tangible solutions. By addressing these critical areas, President Tinubu can begin to restore faith in his administration and chart a path toward a more prosperous and secure Nigeria. Time is of the essence, and Nigerians are watching closely
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