FG An entrepreneur and financial expert, Dr. Dominic Joshua has appealed to Nigerians to exercise patience with President Bola Tinubu economic reforms.
The financial expert also urged those planning the August nationwide protest to shelve the idea given the excellent responses by the President in addressing the economic situation.
He stressed that president Tinubu needed the support of all, saying that the administration has been exceptionally responsive and committed to driving positive change in the country.
He also warned about the consequences of public demonstrations, citing the EndSARS saga, which led to significant destruction of businesses and infrastructure. “The negative consequences of EndSARS are still fresh in our memories. We must avoid any actions that could lead to further destruction,” he said.
He highlighted the recent measures taken by the Federal Government to alleviate economic pressures, such as the suspension of import duties and taxes on essential food items to address hunger.
He also highlighted a strategic move by the government to bolster the local currency and promote domestic economic activities.
“The Federal Government has instructed the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) to sell crude oil to the Dangote Refinery exclusively in naira. This initiative is designed to strengthen the naira and stimulate the local economy,” he noted.
Dr. Joshua commended the Tinubu administration for its prompt responses to emerging issues, citing recent examples as evidence of the government’s commitment to addressing the needs of the populace. “Just yesterday, when sim cards were blocked, the President immediately instructed the NCC to unblock them. This kind of swift response is unprecedented,” he said.
He highlighted several significant achievements of President Tinubu’s government. The removal of fuel subsidies and unification of the naira’s exchange rate are bold steps aimed at reducing corruption and fiscal strain while attracting private sector investment. The 2023 Electricity Act was signed into law to decentralize electricity generation and distribution, empowering states to set up their own electricity markets. The Siemens Power project has also been accelerated to improve power assets in Nigeria.
Initiatives such as distributing 42,000 metric tons of grains and promoting dry season farming have injected significant funds into the economy and created jobs in the agricultural sector. The Renewed Hope Infrastructure Development Fund focuses on critical sectors such as roads, rail, agriculture, ports, and aviation. Noteworthy projects include the construction of a second runway at Abuja’s airport and the reactivation of a second runway in Lagos.
The repositioning of the National Social Investment Programme (NSIP) to deliver more value directly to beneficiaries and the enactment of the Student Loans Access to Higher Education law demonstrate the administration’s commitment to social welfare.
Dr. Joshua implored the populace to be patient and supportive of President Tinubu. “Let’s not allow hooligans to hijack protests and destroy lives and properties. We need to give President Tinubu a chance to implement his vision. His government is one of the most responsive we’ve ever had. Let’s support Asiwaju Bola Tinubu in driving the positive change we all desire,” he concluded.
