Hardship Won’t Last, Nigerians Already Reaping Benefits Of Tinubu’s Reforms — Presidency

The Presidency has maintained that Nigerians are beginning to experience the positive effects of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s economic reforms, despite the prevailing economic challenges facing the country.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

Speaking during an interview on Arise Television, the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, argued that growing allocations to state governments, increased infrastructure development, and improving economic indicators demonstrate that the administration’s policies are yielding results.

Onanuga made the remarks while responding to criticisms by former Anambra State Governor and presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress, Peter Obi. He contended that public confidence in the administration is increasing as citizens witness tangible development projects in their communities.

According to him, President Tinubu’s reforms have strengthened the financial position of state governments, enabling them to execute projects that directly benefit residents.

Drawing from a recent tour of the South-East, Onanuga said many residents expressed appreciation for the President’s efforts, adding that similar engagements would soon be conducted in the North-West.

He noted that increased revenue allocations have empowered state governments to invest in critical sectors such as education, healthcare, and road infrastructure, which he said are improving living conditions across the country.

Defending the administration’s foreign exchange policy, Onanuga said the decision to allow market forces to determine the value of the naira has helped eliminate long-standing distortions in the economy.

He added that assessments by international financial institutions suggest that the naira remains capable of appreciating further, describing current exchange rate trends as evidence that the currency is gradually stabilising.

While acknowledging the rising cost of living and other economic pressures faced by Nigerians, the presidential spokesman insisted that the situation is not as severe as critics portray.

He argued that key macroeconomic indicators point to gradual economic recovery, stressing that major reforms often come with short-term difficulties before long-term benefits emerge.

According to Onanuga, economic transformations in countries around the world have historically involved periods of adjustment and sacrifice, and Nigeria is no exception.

Addressing claims that government officials are shielded from the hardship experienced by ordinary citizens, he said some ministers have made personal sacrifices while serving, including using personal resources to support their official responsibilities.

Onanuga also highlighted the Electricity Act signed by President Tinubu as one of the administration’s landmark reforms. He said the legislation has empowered states to independently generate, transmit and distribute electricity, opening the sector to greater competition and investment.

He noted that several states have already begun taking advantage of the law and expressed confidence that increased participation would further boost electricity supply nationwide.

The presidential aide further rejected assertions that insecurity has worsened under the current administration, arguing that some critics and sections of the media exaggerate isolated incidents to create the impression that the country is under siege.

He urged Nigerians to remain patient and optimistic, assuring them that the current economic challenges are temporary and that the foundations for sustainable growth and prosperity are already being laid.

According to him, economic indicators are pointing in a positive direction, suggesting that the country is on the path to a stronger and more prosperous future.

Responding to concerns about President Tinubu’s visibility and communication style, Onanuga said the President remains actively engaged and regularly communicates through official channels and members of his administration.

He explained that while Tinubu may not always address the public directly, his messages and policies are consistently conveyed through his aides and government institutions.

Onanuga also said the restoration of Nigeria’s old national anthem reflects the President’s commitment to strengthening national unity and fostering a renewed sense of brotherhood among Nigerians, regardless of ethnic or linguistic differences.

He stressed that President Tinubu believes strongly in the unity of the country and remains committed to promoting national cohesion and shared progress.