Beyond Words: A Critique of President Tinubu’s Media Chat and the Way Forward for Nigeria

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s first media chat on December 23, 2024, was a much-anticipated moment for Nigerians, who are eager for clarity and direction in the face of escalating economic and social hardships. While the President addressed key issues like food security, subsidy removal, borrowing, and security, his responses left much to be desired in terms of depth, sincerity, and actionable solutions. Here is a critical breakdown of the session, its shortcomings, and novel suggestions to move Nigeria forward.

Economic Pitfalls: Failing to Address the Core Issues;

While President Tinubu supported the removal of fuel subsidies, his justification lacked empathy for the millions of Nigerians grappling with the policy’s fallout. Claiming that subsidies only benefited smugglers and mismanaged government funds, he failed to acknowledge that the sudden removal without adequate cushioning measures has plunged millions into poverty. The promised palliatives have been largely ineffective, and inflation remains at record highs, exacerbating the cost-of-living crisis.

The defence of borrowing to address infrastructural deficits also lacked nuance. While borrowing for capital projects is justifiable, the government’s track record of managing loans has been marred by corruption and inefficiency. The absence of a detailed plan for repaying these debts or ensuring their judicious use was glaring. Nigerians are right to question whether this borrowing spree will lead to meaningful progress or saddle future generations with unsustainable debt.

Policy Summersaults and Anti-People Tendencies

One of the most troubling aspects of the media chat was the lack of a coherent policy direction. For instance, the President’s explanation of the tax reform bill came across as evasive. While he acknowledged its necessity, he skirted around the specifics of how it will impact small businesses and the informal sector, which form the backbone of the Nigerian economy. Policies that disproportionately burden ordinary citizens while leaving elites untouched only deepen inequality and erode public trust.

Moreover, the government’s handling of food security raises serious questions. While the President spoke of the newly established Ministry of Livestock Development, his rhetoric failed to provide concrete steps on how it would tackle hunger in the immediate term. Hunger is not a distant challenge—it is a daily reality for millions. Grandiose plans without immediate interventions betray an anti-people approach prioritising optics over substance.

Political Rhetoric and Trust Deficiency

President Tinubu’s media chat was heavy on rhetoric and light on accountability. Phrases like “turning challenges into opportunities” sound inspiring but ring hollow without measurable progress. The President’s failure to acknowledge the government’s role in the current economic crisis reflects a lack of honesty with the citizens. Trust, already at an all-time low, cannot be rebuilt with half-truths and vague promises.

For instance, while the President spoke about security improvements, he did not address the widespread reports of misuse of funds allocated to security agencies. Transparency and accountability in government spending remain elusive, further eroding public confidence.

Some Suggestions for a Better Nigeria –

Bold and innovative strategies are needed to chart a new course for Nigeria. Here are some actionable suggestions:

Direct Citizen Dividends: Establish a transparent system for distributing revenues from natural resources directly to citizens. This model, used in Alaska’s Permanent Fund Dividend, can ensure that Nigerians directly benefit from the nation’s wealth, reducing dependency on poorly managed palliatives.

Decentralised Food Banks: Create community-based, tech-enabled food banks across all 774 local government areas. These food banks should be managed by local stakeholders, using blockchain technology to ensure transparency and prevent corruption.

Public Budget Referendum: Introduce a system where major government budgets are subjected to a public referendum. This would empower citizens to have a say in how their money is spent and foster a culture of accountability.

Tax Relief for Informal Sector: Rather than imposing new taxes, the government should offer tax incentives to small businesses and informal sector workers who comply with basic formalisation requirements, such as registering their businesses. This would broaden the tax base without stifling growth.

National Trust Fund for Accountability: Establish an independent trust fund managed by reputable local or international bodies to oversee and audit the use of loans and development funds. This would ensure that every naira borrowed is tied to specific, measurable outcomes.

Citizen Data Hub: Develop a comprehensive citizen data system to streamline the distribution of government interventions. Using advanced analytics, the government can identify the most vulnerable populations and deliver targeted assistance efficiently.

Commendations and Constructive Criticism

It is commendable that the President addressed critical issues head-on rather than avoiding them. His emphasis on long-term planning, particularly in areas like livestock development and infrastructure, is a step in the right direction. However, leadership requires more than ambition; it demands honesty, empathy, and concrete action.

The government must abandon the habit of making lofty promises without delivering results. Nigerians deserve leaders who are transparent, accountable, and genuinely committed to their welfare. The time for rhetoric is over; the nation needs a government that leads by example and inspires trust through consistent, people-centred governance.

Conclusion

While significant, President Tinubu’s media chat fell short of providing the clarity and reassurance that Nigerians desperately need. The road to a better Nigeria requires bold, innovative solutions and a government that prioritises the well-being of its citizens above all else. It is time to move beyond words and deliver tangible results that reflect the genuine aspirations of the Nigerian people.

Fr. Raymond Anoliefo
Director, JDPC Lagos