Tinubu Deserves Praise, Not Condemnation for Reforms — Shettima

By George Omagbemi Sylvester

Vice President Kashim Shettima has defended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s economic reforms, arguing that the administration deserves praise rather than condemnation for taking difficult decisions aimed at restructuring Nigeria’s economy.

Shettima’s position reflects the government’s argument that reforms, including the removal of petrol subsidy and changes to the foreign-exchange system, were necessary to address longstanding distortions and create conditions for sustainable economic growth.

However, the praise comes against a backdrop of significant hardship experienced by millions of Nigerians. The reforms triggered sharp increases in transport and food costs, while inflation and the weakening naira reduced household purchasing power. For many citizens, improved macroeconomic indicators have yet to translate into meaningful improvements in daily living standards.

The administration has nevertheless pointed to increased government revenues, stronger fiscal capacity, rising investment interest and efforts to stabilise the economy as evidence that its policies are beginning to produce results.

The central question is therefore not whether reforms were necessary, but whether their benefits will eventually reach ordinary Nigerians.

For Tinubu’s government, credibility will ultimately depend on converting economic stabilisation into jobs, affordable food, reliable infrastructure and improved living standards.