Ikeja,LAGOS STATE – Former President Muhammadu Buhari today extended his hearty congratulations to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on his second year in office, acknowledging the significant milestones achieved while emphasizing that leadership is a continuous journey requiring steadfast support and collective effort.
In a statement released by his spokesperson, Garba Shehu, Buhari lauded President Tinubu’s administration, urging Nigerians to remain optimistic despite ongoing economic challenges. The former president’s message, issued as the All Progressives Congress (APC) government marks its midterm, highlighted the necessity of patience as reforms are implemented. “Reforms would achieve success gradually, not overnight,” Buhari stated, appealing for understanding from the populace.Buhari also delivered a strong caution against allowing “nettlesome domestic politics” to derail essential reforms and desired changes.
This advice comes amidst a period of significant economic restructuring under President Tinubu, including the removal of fuel subsidies and unification of foreign exchange windows, which have been widely reported to have had both positive and challenging impacts on the Nigerian economy.
According to recent reports, these reforms, while deemed crucial for long-term stability and resilience against external shocks by institutions like the IMF, have also contributed to persistent high inflation and poverty levels, particularly affecting the most vulnerable households. PwC projections indicate that rising inflation and naira depreciation could push an additional 13 million Nigerians below the poverty line by 2025.
Acknowledging these hardships, former President Buhari expressed his full support for the administration’s efforts to curb poverty and inflation, which he noted “have hit the poorest families the hardest.” However, he underscored that the immense task of economic recovery cannot be solely borne by the government. “The private sector and all of us as citizens must join in all ways we can,” he urged, advocating for a collaborative approach to national development.
President Tinubu’s second year in office has seen his administration focus on various structural reforms and sector-specific initiatives aimed at stabilizing the macroeconomy, expanding access to finance, and accelerating inclusive development. Notable achievements cited in reports include significant debt repayment, rising foreign reserves, growing investor confidence, expansive infrastructural development, and youth empowerment schemes. The government has also made strides in security, with the establishment of a National Command and Control Centre reducing incident response time and violent crime.
Despite these efforts, challenges persist, particularly in the maritime sector with issues like dilapidated access roads to seaports and inadequate infrastructure. The government’s foreign policy has also shifted towards economic diplomacy, a departure from the previous administration’s security-driven approach.
In concluding his message, former President Buhari called for tempered expectations from the government, stating, “Our expectations from our governments should not get heavy.” He reiterated his heartfelt congratulations to President Tinubu, wishing him continued wisdom and care in leading the nation.
