Nationwide protests: Everything wrong with Tinubu’s speech

In his recent national address, President Bola Tinubu expressed concern over the ongoing nationwide protests and highlighted various governmental efforts to stabilize Nigeria’s economy. While his speech covered a wide array of policies and initiatives aimed at economic recovery, several critical aspects were notably absent.

Read More:

“Nothing legit about nationwide protests” — Hope Uzodinma alleges

“One thing about Nigerians” — Tonto Dikeh mocks nationwide protests

Tinubu’s daughter urges market sellers to prevent nationwide protests

Unaddressed Issues:

1. Rising Cost of Living and Basic Necessities: Despite acknowledging the economic hardship faced by Nigerians, the President’s speech did not delve into immediate relief measures for the rising cost of living. The removal of fuel subsidies and subsequent inflationary pressures have disproportionately affected the lower and middle classes, yet there was little mention of short-term interventions to alleviate their struggles.
2. Transparency and Accountability in Government Spending: The address lacked a clear discussion on the heavy spending by political office holders. The public has voiced concerns over the perceived extravagance and lack of transparency in government expenditures, particularly regarding the salaries, allowances, and perks enjoyed by elected officials. By not addressing these issues, the President missed an opportunity to reassure citizens of a commitment to fiscal prudence and equitable governance.
3. Inadequate Social Safety Nets: While President Tinubu highlighted efforts like the student loan scheme and the Consumer Credit Corporation, these initiatives fall short of a comprehensive social safety net needed to protect the most vulnerable. There was no mention of enhancing existing social welfare programs or introducing new ones to support those hit hardest by the economic downturn.
4. Job Creation and Youth Unemployment: Although the President spoke of infrastructure projects and initiatives like the Digital and Creative Enterprises programme, there was insufficient focus on specific, immediate job creation strategies. The issue of youth unemployment, a significant driver of the protests, requires more targeted and urgent solutions than were outlined.

Critique of Governmental Response:

President Tinubu’s call for the suspension of protests and a focus on dialogue was a notable aspect of his address. However, his framing of the protests as potentially driven by political agendas could be perceived as dismissive of the genuine grievances of the populace. A more empathetic acknowledgment of the citizens’ frustrations and a detailed plan for engaging with protest leaders might have fostered a more constructive atmosphere for dialogue.

The speech, while comprehensive in some areas, fell short in addressing key public concerns about the immediate impact of economic policies on everyday Nigerians and the need for more transparent governance. To gain broader public trust and support, future communications should focus more on tangible, short-term relief measures and a commitment to curbing excesses within the government.