Bayo Onanuga, the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, argues that the economic policies of President Bola Tinubu are essential for national recovery, despite the immediate difficulties faced by citizens. He emphasizes that the administration remains committed to shielding the vulnerable, citing initiatives like the $3.5 billion ward-centric program, the introduction of affordable Compressed Natural Gas (CNG), and various humanitarian transfers. Onanuga notes that upon taking office, the government inherited a near-bankrupt economy, characterized by significant debt, fuel scarcity, and dwindling foreign reserves.
Highlighting the administration’s progress, Onanuga points to a significant rise in foreign reserves to $52 billion, a thriving stock market, and increased fiscal allocations to states. He contends that subnational governments are now better positioned to focus on development projects rather than acting merely as conduits for salary payments. Regarding the 2027 elections, he asserts that the All Progressives Congress (APC) has earned the public’s confidence, noting that political opponents have yet to present concrete, viable policy alternatives to current government strategies.
Addressing security and local governance, Onanuga supports the move toward state policing as a vital step to bridge gaps in national safety and generate employment. He also clarifies that the selection of Vice President Kashim Shettima was based on merit rather than religion, dismissing concerns of an ‘Islamisation’ agenda as propaganda. Finally, he stresses that local government financial autonomy, as ordered by the Supreme Court, is a necessary shift to improve grassroots governance and ensure officials remain present to serve their constituents effectively.
