Tinubu: Three Years of Harsh Regression

EXPRESSO By STEVE OSUJI

Today marks exactly three years since President Bola Tinubu was sworn in as Nigeria’s president. The period has been characterized by significant challenges for the country and its citizens.

Critics argue that the administration has struggled to address key issues, including the nation’s electricity supply, and that many citizens feel left behind.

WHERE’S THE LIGHT YOU PROMISED US:

During his campaign, President Tinubu pledged to resign if he could not resolve Nigeria’s electricity crisis. However, the promised improvements have not materialized. The national grid has seen limited additions of new lines or substations, and the Siemens project initiated during President Muhammadu Buhari’s tenure has not been completed. Since May 2023, the power infrastructure has reportedly experienced increased disruptions.

While former President Buhari’s Power Minister, Babatunde Fashola, was noted for expanding the grid and attracting new power plants, Tinubu’s Minister of Power, Ademola Adelabu, has been criticized for prioritizing political interests over infrastructure development.

The electricity situation has deteriorated to the point that the Presidential Palace has been disconnected from the national grid. In response, the administration has installed a separate solar panel system to power the palace.

Beyond the electricity issues, critics claim that the Tinubu administration has not demonstrated effective leadership in other economic sectors. They point to rising insecurity, corruption, increasing debt, and declining manufacturing and agriculture as evidence of broader governance challenges.

Specific concerns include:

• Insecurity: Critics say the government has been ineffective in addressing security threats, citing incidents such as the attack on a school in Oyo State and the beheading of a teacher.
• Corruption: Allegations of corruption have been directed at senior officials.
• Debt: Nigeria’s debt has increased significantly.
• Manufacturing and agriculture: High taxes and production costs are said to have discouraged local manufacturing, while agricultural output has declined, leading to greater food imports.
• Reforms: The administration’s economic reforms are described by some as impulsive and lacking tangible results.
• Public spending: Concerns have been raised about wasteful use of public funds.
• Ethnic and religious tensions: Nigeria is reported to be experiencing heightened divisions.
• Security: The country is described by some as one of the most terrorised nations worldwide.

Some observers suggest that the Tinubu administration’s performance has been “irreparable” and that the country’s direction is unclear.

In a personal note, the author reflects on the passing of his mother, Jemimah Iheonunekwu Osuji, who was 91. He expresses gratitude for her support and prayers, and mourns her loss.