The Nigerian Presidency has assured citizens of significant progress under President Bola Tinubu despite criticisms from the Catholic Bishops. Improvements in security, economic stability, and youth empowerment initiatives are emphasized, along with plans for job creation. The administration is aware of economic hardships faced by citizens but remains committed to addressing these challenges and advancing national prosperity.
The Presidency has assured citizens that Nigeria is making considerable improvements under President Bola Tinubu despite concerns from the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria regarding ongoing national challenges. This reassurance was articulated by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, in a statement released this Monday.
Onanuga recognized the governance hurdles that persist but emphasized progress in security, economic stability, and youth empowerment during the current administration. This response was prompted by CBCN President Archbishop Lucius Iwejuru’s remarks at a plenary meeting in Abuja, where he addressed issues such as unemployment and corruption, urging a proactive approach from leaders.
The statement conveyed President Tinubu’s appreciation for the Catholic Bishops’ advocacy in governance. It affirmed the bishops’ dedication to national unity and stability. On security, Onanuga asserted that Nigeria has become significantly safer compared to 2023, attributed mainly to military efforts that have resulted in the elimination of over 8,000 criminals and the rescue of more than 10,000 individuals, predominantly women and children.
Additionally, he noted that enhanced security conditions have enabled farms to operate effectively, thus boosting food production and causing a reduction in commodity prices. Addressing economic concerns, Onanuga outlined that the Tinubu administration has successfully stabilized the economy and improved Nigeria’s financial position, with advances in trade balance, foreign reserves, and a strengthening naira.
Local refining capabilities have also seen improvements, with the Dangote Refinery and the NNPCL refineries in Port Harcourt and Warri now operational. Initiatives designed to foster job creation and empower youth, such as 3MTT, NATEP, LEEP, IDiCE, NiYA, and the Nigerian Youth Investment Fund, are projected to create over 10 million jobs. The administration has also increased allocations for infrastructure, healthcare, education, and security as outlined in the N54.9 trillion 2025 budget.
Moreover, international entities like Chatham House have acknowledged the enhanced competitiveness of Nigeria’s economy under Tinubu, attributing such advancements to recent reforms. Although acknowledging ongoing economic hardships for some Nigerians, Onanuga expressed confidence in the government’s direction towards a more prosperous future. He reiterated that President Tinubu and his team remain committed to realizing a stronger Nigeria.
In contrast, Archbishop Iwejuru has pointed out that the economic reforms have resulted in soaring inflation, contributing to increased poverty levels while exacerbating the hardship faced by Nigerians due to escalating costs for fuel, transportation, and essential goods.
In summary, the Nigerian Presidency has responded positively to criticisms from the Catholic Bishops’ Conference regarding national governance challenges, asserting significant progress under President Bola Tinubu. Highlights from the report include advancements in security, economic stability, and youth empowerment initiatives aimed at job creation. Despite persisting economic hardships, the administration remains committed to fostering a brighter future for the nation, drawing acclaim from international observers for its reforms.
Original Source: punchng.com
