CC™ PersPective
In his timeless book, "The Trouble with Nigeria," the late Professor Chinua Achebe poignantly pointed out that the core issue plaguing Nigeria arises "simply and squarely" from a deficit in leadership. Dismissing the leadership and two years of progress and contributions President Bola Ahmed Tinubu made would be disingenuous and preposterous. President Tinubu's meticulous strategy for governance reveals a leader who had come prepared and ready to embrace the demanding challenge of leading the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
The ongoing discourse surrounding President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's turbulent two-year tenure, marked by extensive governmental reforms and renewed hope and optimism, warrants serious attention. It is indisputable that his socio-economic initiatives fundamentally rethink government operations in Nigeria. Nonetheless, a critical inquiry arises: How many ordinary Nigerians are truly reaping the benefits of these socio-economic reforms and transformations?
While it is accurate to acknowledge that certain statements from the administration regarding statistical achievements present a degree of truth—of which I am convinced, supported by numerous examples—the reality is that these assertions have not effectively translated into noticeable enhancements in the overall living conditions of the populace. Despite the veracity of these claims, their real-world impact on citizens' daily lives remains regrettably limited.
Consequently, I find myself at a juncture similar to that of many discerning individuals; our considerations regarding the reasons for this disparity are equally legitimate. We are left contemplating why, despite the potential for beneficial change, there has been a lack of substantial progress that improves the living standards for the majority. This intricate scenario compels us to scrutinize the efficiency of the existing systems and whether they genuinely fulfill the needs of those they are designed to assist.
To assess governmental policy achievements, it is essential to identify and evaluate six significant existential factors, among others below:
- Tinubu's administration must implement an impactful and commendable policy aimed at identifying people's needs. It should be called Public Bureau of Access and Transparency (PBAT). This policy needs to resonate deeply within the lives of the underprivileged communities in Nigerian society. It is crucial that this suggested and well-intentioned initiative not only remains a lofty ideal to be discussed in boardrooms or legislative halls but manifests tangible, positive changes in the everyday realities of those facing socio-economic hardships.
- PBAT's administration must continue with its comprehensive approach to security, encompassing many strategies, methodologies, and technologies designed to enhance public safety and maintain law and order. It must involve not only the deployment of law enforcement agencies but also the collaboration between various sectors, including community organizations, educational institutions, and private enterprises, all working together to foster a safer environment.
- The government holds a profound responsibility not only to its own mechanisms and institutions but also to the very citizens it serves. This accountability is a cornerstone of a functioning democracy, anchoring the trust between the ruling authorities and the populace. It embodies a complex relationship wherein elected officials, public servants, and civil institutions are bound by a duty to operate transparently, ensuring that their actions and decisions reflect the interests and needs of the community.
- Equitable and prudent distribution of scarce resources to meet the needs of the disadvantaged population.
- The uniform application of justice, equity, and fairness among citizens, irrespective of geopolitical factors, would reinstate confidence and trust in the equal branches of government.
- A broad transformation of Nigeria’s varied cultural, religious, and political landscapes is essential, along with the necessity for all diligent Nigerians to re-engage with agriculture and commerce.
- Enhancement of the government's initiatives aimed at achieving both immediate and enduring success in revitalizing the economy and fulfilling the aspirations of the populace.
Straying from these suggested solutions could prolong the hardships faced by the people of Nigeria. The everyday Nigerian is entitled to relief from the nation's abundant resources. Those living in poverty should be able to feel the positive changes in the economy, experiencing rejuvenation and reforms that truly benefit every citizen.