President Bola Tinubu’s administration has made significant strides in addressing Nigeria’s economic and security challenges, according to a statement by Bayo Onanuga, the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy. Speaking on behalf of the government, Onanuga responded to concerns raised by the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) during their recent plenary meeting in Abuja, where they highlighted youth unemployment, insecurity, poverty, and corruption as critical national issues.
In his address, CBCN President Archbishop Lucius Iwejuru urged prompt action to prevent the country from further deterioration. However, Onanuga praised Tinubu’s leadership, asserting that the country had made remarkable progress in various areas since his administration began nearly two years ago.
Economic Stability and Security Improvement
Onanuga highlighted several key achievements under President Tinubu’s leadership, particularly in security, where the Nigerian military and security agencies, guided by the President as Commander-in-Chief, have effectively reduced criminal activities. Over 8,000 criminals, including bandits and terrorists, have been eliminated, and more than 10,000 Nigerians, primarily women and children, rescued from abductions. This improved security has allowed farmers to return to their fields, contributing to increased food production and a reduction in commodity prices, particularly in the northern regions.
On the economic front, Onanuga noted that the government has stabilized the economy, with improvements in the balance of trade, foreign reserves, and inflation. Local refining capacity has also increased with new refineries in Port Harcourt, Warri, and the Dangote Refinery.
Youth Employment Initiatives
With a focus on youth development, Onanuga emphasized that President Tinubu’s administration is committed to creating opportunities for young Nigerians. Programs like 3MTT, NATEP, LEEP, IDiCE, NiYA, and the Nigerian Youth Investment Fund aim to generate over 10 million new jobs and support youth entrepreneurship and skills development.
Infrastructure and National Growth
The administration’s ambitious N54.9 trillion budget for 2025 is aimed at revitalizing the economy and investing in critical infrastructure such as roads, healthcare, education, and security. Onanuga also mentioned that local and international institutions, including Chatham House, have praised the government’s economic reforms, particularly its efforts to enhance Nigeria’s competitiveness.
