In his inaugural speech as the newly sworn-in president of Nigeria, President Tinubu addressed the pressing issue of the fuel crisis gripping the nation. He emphasized that there was no provision for fuel subsidy by the past administration, signaling the end of fuel subsidy. Despite the immediate onset of the fuel crisis, Nigerians expressed their support for Tinubu’s bold decision.
However, in response to the rising fuel prices and the resulting cost of living, Nigerians called for immediate palliative measures. They demanded an increase in the minimum wage to at least 100,000 Naira, 24/7 provision of electricity, and highly subsidized public transportation across states.
President Tinubu outlined his plans to tackle these challenges and provide relief to the Nigerian people. He emphasized that security would be the top priority of his administration and pledged to reform the security doctrine and architecture. This would involve investing more in security personnel through better training, equipment, pay, and firepower.
To address the economic issues, Tinubu’s administration aims to target higher GDP growth and reduce unemployment. They plan to implement budgetary reforms that stimulate the economy without causing inflation.
Additionally, they will employ fiscal measures to promote domestic manufacturing, reduce import dependency, and make electricity more accessible and affordable. The generation, transmission, and distribution networks for power will be improved, and states will be encouraged to develop local sources of electricity.
Tinubu also expressed his commitment to creating meaningful opportunities for the youth and delivering on the promise of one million new jobs in the digital economy. His administration plans to work with the National Assembly to pass an omnibus Jobs and Prosperity bill, facilitating labor-intensive infrastructure improvements, encouraging light industry, and providing improved social services for the marginalized.
In the agricultural sector, Tinubu aims to secure rural incomes through commodity exchange boards that guarantee minimal prices for crops and animal products. Nationwide programs for storage and other facilities will be implemented to reduce spoilage and waste.
Agricultural hubs will be established to increase production and engage in value-added processing, while the livestock sector will adopt modern practices and resolve conflicts over land and water resources.
Continuing the efforts of the previous administration, Tinubu’s government will prioritize the development of national networks of roads, rail, and ports. Monetary policy will be reformed to establish a unified exchange rate, reduce interest rates, and promote investment in the real economy. The policy on currency swaps will also be reviewed.
On the foreign policy front, Tinubu emphasized the importance of peace and stability in the West African subregion and the African continent. His administration will work closely with ECOWAS, the AU, and international partners to end existing conflicts and promote collective prosperity.
As Nigerians await the implementation of these plans, the National Labour Congress (NLC) has threatened to go on strike over the ongoing fuel crisis. It remains to be seen how President Tinubu’s leadership and proposed solutions will address the immediate concerns of the Nigerian people and pave the way for a more prosperous and secure future.
