Tinubu will implement harsher reforms to 'reshape' Nigeria, the information minister says

By: News Peddlers

Bola Tinubu & Mohammed Idris

Mohammed Idris, Nigeria's minister of information, says President Bola Tinubu will implement more harsh reforms to "shape" the country despite ongoing economic difficulties.

In an article circulated on social media platforms on Thursday, Mr Idris praised Mr Tinubu for keeping his campaign promises, removing the fuel subsidy, floating the naira, and other reforms, while insisting that the president would make "more difficult decisions."

The minister stated, "More difficult decisions must be made before Nigeria can be reshaped and grow economically for the benefit of its citizens and the entire African continent.

"Tinubu has done what he promised on the economy: he has removed the fuel subsidy, floated the Naira, and instituted a raft of other reforms, including changes to the tax code and waivers for foreign investors in critical industries including mining, energy, and infrastructure."

Mr Tinubu took office on May 29, 2023, and announced the immediate removal of fuel subsidies and the floating of the naira. His dual policies resulted in fuel prices rising from N145 to N710 and the naira trading at around N1,500 to a dollar, while transport and food costs skyrocketed.

Mr Tinubu marked his one-year anniversary in office on May 29, amid criticism from Nigerians concerned about rising food inflation, economic hardship, and insecurity. 

Experts and the International Monetary Fund praised Mr Tinubu's economic policies. However, official records show that food inflation is 40%. 

Several market surveys conducted by Peoples Gazette revealed that food prices have risen by more than 100% while the national minimum wage has remained unchanged.

Furthermore, under Mr Tinubu's leadership, insecurity has persisted as Boko Haram and bandits continue their killing sprees and kidnappings for ransom.

According to Amnesty International, Nigeria's ongoing abductions and killings demonstrate the government's failure to protect lives under President Bola Tinubu.

"Frequent mass abductions and killings are clear evidence of failures by authorities to protect the people," the human rights organisation said.