A delicate balance of reform and reality of President Bola Tinubu Two years in office
As President Bola Ahmed Tinubu marks his second year in office, Nigeria stands at a crossroads—grappling with the immediate hardships of sweeping economic reforms while holding onto the promise of long-term prosperity.
Tinubu’s tenure has been characterized by bold policy shifts aimed at revitalizing the nation’s economy, yet these measures have also sparked significant public discontent and socio-economic challenges.
Economic Reforms: Ambitious Moves Amidst Immediate Strains
Upon assuming office in May 2023, President Tinubu initiated a series of aggressive economic reforms. Chief among these was the removal of the long-standing fuel subsidy, a move intended to curb fiscal waste and redirect funds toward infrastructure and social programs. Additionally, the unification of the naira’s exchange rates aimed to eliminate arbitrage and attract foreign investment.
These policies have yielded some positive outcomes. Government revenues more than doubled, reaching over ₦9.1 trillion in the first half of 2024, facilitating increased allocations to education, healthcare, and infrastructure projects. The administration also reported a reduction in the budget deficit, signaling a commitment to fiscal responsibility.
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However, the immediate impact on the populace has been severe. The abrupt subsidy removal led to a tripling of petrol prices, triggering a cascade of inflationary pressures. Food prices soared by over 40%, and inflation reached 34%, exacerbating the cost-of-living crisis. The International Monetary Fund acknowledged the reforms’ necessity but noted that they have yet to alleviate poverty or food insecurity for many Nigerians.
Social Unrest and Public Backlash
The economic hardships have ignited widespread protests and labor strikes. In mid-2024, the Nigeria Labour Congress and Trade Union Congress initiated a general strike, demanding a significant increase in the minimum wage. The strike, which led to the shutdown of essential services, concluded with an agreement to raise the minimum wage to ₦70,000 and a pledge for triennial reviews.
Tragic incidents, such as stampedes at charity events resulting in multiple deaths, underscored the desperation among citizens. Additionally, the government’s suppression of dissent, including the banning of a song critical of the president, has raised concerns about freedom of expression.
Youth Empowerment and Social Initiatives
Recognizing the pivotal role of youth in national development, the Tinubu administration launched several programs aimed at empowerment and skill acquisition. Initiatives like the Digital and Creative Enterprises program and the 3 Million Technical Talents scheme aim to equip young Nigerians with marketable skills. The establishment of the Consumer Credit Corporation and the Student Loan Access to Higher Education law are steps toward financial inclusion and educational accessibility.
Since joining the Nigerian presidential media team in May 2024, I have contributed directly to shaping the national narrative around these youth-focused initiatives. As a strategic communicator and editorial lead, I developed targeted content strategies that elevated success stories from across the six geopolitical zones, showcasing how government programs are transforming young lives. Through nationwide field reports, youth-centered town halls, and policy explainers tailored for digital audiences, our team has strengthened the bridge between government intent and citizen understanding.
Infrastructure and Agricultural Development
Efforts to bolster infrastructure have seen the operationalization of key projects, including rail lines, highways, and bridges—intended to enhance connectivity and stimulate economic activity. In agriculture, the declaration of a state of emergency and the establishment of the National Agricultural Development Fund aim to address food insecurity through initiatives like the Dry Season Farming Initiative.
As part of the presidential media unit, I coordinated media documentation of these infrastructure and agricultural efforts—overseeing field communications and crafting immersive stories that made technical policy shifts relatable. From spotlighting rural farmers benefiting from subsidized inputs to profiling road construction crews revitalizing neglected highways, our storytelling emphasized the human element behind Tinubu’s development agenda.
Security Challenges Persist
Despite these efforts, security remains a pressing concern. Persistent threats from insurgent groups and criminal banditry continue to destabilize regions, undermining economic progress and public confidence. Critics argue that the administration’s focus on economic reforms has overshadowed the urgency of addressing security lapses.
In my role within the presidential media team, I have worked closely with security spokespeople and government agencies to ensure the timely dissemination of verified information—countering fake news and disinformation that often fuel panic. By coordinating proactive briefings and digital alerts during critical incidents, we reinforced the government’s communication posture on national security issues.
Looking Ahead: Navigating the Path Forward
As President Tinubu contemplates a re-election bid in 2027, his administration faces the critical task of translating macroeconomic gains into tangible improvements in citizens’ daily lives. The challenge lies in balancing the rigor of economic reforms with the imperative of social welfare and security.
From my vantage point in the presidential media team, I have witnessed both the complexity of governance and the power of clear, honest communication. Our duty goes beyond publicity—we shape public memory, clarify intentions, and give voice to impact. As Nigeria continues this delicate balancing act, the responsibility to tell the story of its progress, struggles, and hope remains as vital as the policies themselves.
About Ihesiulo Grace Amarachi
Ihesiulo Grace Amarachi is a dynamic digital editor and accomplished journalist at Daily Times Nigeria, where she also serves as the State House Correspondent. With a strong background in digital journalism, she brings a blend of precision, storytelling expertise, and real-time reporting to the forefront of Nigerian media.
As an Online Editor, Ihesiulo plays a pivotal role in curating and managing the digital content of Daily Times Nigeria, ensuring the publication remains a trusted source for timely and engaging news. Her editorial leadership is instrumental in delivering current affairs, political developments, and national events to a wide digital audience.
Ihesiulo’s journalistic career is marked by her in-depth coverage of high-profile national events. Notably, she has reported on significant moments such as the commemorative signing ceremony attended by former Nigerian Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon, and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Her contributions reflect her dedication to quality journalism and a deep commitment to informing the public with accuracy and integrity.
With expertise in digital storytelling and news editing, Ihesiulo Grace Amarachi continues to set a high standard in Nigerian journalism. For a deeper look into her work and articles, visit the Daily Times Nigeria website.
