As we usher in the new year 2025, it is a fitting moment to recognize and commend the tireless efforts of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. His commitment to addressing the myriad challenges facing our nation is indeed commendable.
Happy New Year to you, our very dynamic President and leader, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and to all Nigerians !
In these changing times, Nigerians are beginning to discern their true allies and adversaries. One of the key areas receiving immediate attention from President Tinubu, coupled with his renewed hope agenda, is the rejuvenation of the refining capacity of our refineries.
Nigerians are now asking: what balm is President Tinubu applying to the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL)? This endeavor certainly goes beyond mere financing.
Should our refineries continue as we are now seeing to operate efficiently within President Tinubu’s first term of the two terms of eight years, the implications for our economy and the upliftment of Nigerians could be transformative.
The historical neglect faced by the refineries under the watch of NNPCL, which have been hampered by corruption and mismanagement, has often led many to conclude that they would never function effectively. If they now emerge as reliable producers of refined oil, providing for the needs of Nigerians both at home and abroad, it will reaffirm a critical truth: Nigerians are not the problem; rather, it is the quality of leadership we have experienced, particularly at the presidential level. Thank God for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu !
Local government autonomy remains a pivotal issue that President Tinubu is addressing head on. Empowering local governments will enhance grassroots participation in governance and ensure that the needs of local communities are met effectively, reducing the dangerous dependence on the Federal Government for good tidings while state governments are left to enjoy the huge Federal allocations doles out to them without adequate accountability.
Nigerians are closely observing the trajectory of Mr. President’s noble and timely tax reform initiative currently before the National Assembly. The response of state governments to this initiative is being monitored with keen interest.
The clarity emerging around the objectives of President Tinubu’s reform initiatives is vital as Nigeria charts a course for a prosperous future.
The balm of these reforms in a country where a privileged few hold the jugular of the vast majority will undoubtedly elicit stiff opposition from those who benefit from the status quo.
However, we remain confident that President Tinubu will stay focused, undaunted, and resolute. It is imperative that transparency and fairness continues guide any reforms agenda led by the President.
It may be prudent for Mr President and the National Assembly to reconsider the immunity clauses that have allowed certain state governments to engage in unchecked misdemeanors.
It is inexplicable why such clauses were ever snuggled into our constitution. Accountability at all levels of government is essential for fostering trust and facilitating robust governance.
By revisiting these policies, we can pave the way for more responsible leadership that prioritizes the welfare of Nigeria citizens at all levels.
As President Tinubu navigates the complexities of governance in 2025 and beyond, it is hoped that he will continue to prioritize more of the reform initiatives. By doing so, he will continue to nourish the thirsty souls of Nigerians who yearn for progress, justice, and a brighter future.
Under your watch Mr. President, We look forward to a 2025 and many more years filled with promise and meaningful change.
– Hon. Musa Asiru Bakare, member Tinubu Support Group (TSG), writes from Lokoja, Kogi state capital.
