Tinubu’s First Year: Nigerians Debate ‘Best’ to Come

In May 2023, Nigeria witnessed a significant political event as Bola Ahmed Tinubu was sworn in as the 16th President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. Since then, the Nigerian populace has been closely observing his administration, with discussions often centering around his first year in office and the impact of his policies.

One of the most notable events of Tinubu’s presidency was the decision to remove the fuel subsidy, a move that was met with mixed reactions. The fuel subsidy removal caused an immediate spike in fuel prices, from ₦185 to over ₦500 across the country. In an attempt to appease the public, President Tinubu addressed the nation on July 31, 2023, to explain his rationale for ending the subsidy, which he claimed was to prevent money from going into the pockets of a select group of individuals. Despite this explanation, the move has been a point of contention among the Nigerian populace, with some lauding it as a step towards economic reform and others criticizing it as a burden on the average Nigerian.

The economic challenges faced by Nigeria during Tinubu’s first year in office were further exacerbated by the decision to unify multiple exchange rates. This move aimed to curb arbitrage but has led to a significant increase in the value of the naira, with the government now having more money to share from the Federation Accounts. However, this has not translated into immediate relief for the average Nigerian, as the economy continues to grapple with inflation and a high cost of living.

In terms of security, President Tinubu has faced a multitude of challenges, including the ongoing threats from Boko Haram and its ISIL-allied offshoot – the Islamic West Africa Province (ISWAP) – in the northeast, armed bandits in the northwest, and separatists in the southeast. Despite these challenges, the administration has been working towards improving security measures, with the hope of creating a safer Nigeria for all its citizens.

Internationally, President Tinubu has made significant strides, including being appointed as the new Chairman of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) in July. This position is seen as a testament to his growing influence within the region and his commitment to fostering stronger ties with Nigeria’s neighbors.

As Nigerians debate the impact of Tinubu’s first year in office, there is a sense of cautious optimism about what the future holds. While some are critical of the administration’s handling of the economy and security, others believe that President Tinubu’s actions are laying the groundwork for a more prosperous and secure Nigeria in the years to come.

As the debate continues, Nigerians are reminded that the first year of a presidency is just the beginning, and the true measure of an administration’s success is often found in the long-term outcomes of its policies and decisions.