The Presidency has defended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s economic policies, saying the reforms were not designed to make Nigerians suffer but to address longstanding challenges and rebuild the economy.
President Tinubu’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, said the administration remained focused on creating a stronger and more sustainable economy despite the difficulties associated with the reforms.
Onanuga also criticised opposition figures for condemning the government’s policies without presenting practical alternatives to the economic challenges confronting the country.
He said the administration’s measures were beginning to yield results through efforts to stabilise the economy, attract investment, boost revenue and create more opportunities for Nigerians.
Onanuga argued that the administration’s economic reforms are a strategic response to the financial crisis predicted by former Edo State Governor Godwin Obaseki, rather than an attempt to inflict hardship on Nigerians.
By sharing a video of Obaseki’s previous warnings, Onanuga framed the current policies as a proactive measure to address and prevent the very instability the former governor foresaw.
He wrote: “My fellow Nigerians, please revisit former Governor Godwin Obaseki’s warning made several years ago about the country’s looming financial crisis.
“In light of that prediction, Nigerians, including opposition leaders, should acknowledge President Tinubu’s efforts to avert a potential economic catastrophe through his bold reforms.
“President Tinubu did not introduce the economic measures to make Nigerians suffer, but to steer the country away from the dire outcome Obaseki predicted and place the economy on a more sustainable path.
“President Tinubu has done the most difficult work by stabilising the economy. His next reform is about bringing prosperity to all Nigerians.”
The presidential aide acknowledged the hardship experienced by citizens but maintained that the government was taking steps to cushion the impact and ensure that the benefits of the reforms eventually translate into improved living conditions.
He urged Nigerians to remain patient with the administration, stressing that the reforms were aimed at laying the foundation for long-term economic growth and stability.
