“Civil Society Coalition Backs Tinubu’s Economic Policies Amid Sanusi’s Criticism”

A coalition of civil society organizations, the Socialist Liberation Movement (SLM), has expressed strong support for President Bola Tinubu’s economic policies and development initiatives. This endorsement comes after former Central Bank Governor and Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, criticized the handling of the Nigerian economy under Tinubu’s administration.

Sanusi, speaking at the 21st Chief Gani Fawehinmi Memorial Lecture organized by the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) in Ikeja, Lagos on January 15, 2025, criticized the Tinubu government for mishandling the economy, stating that the policies lacked credibility and were not being executed correctly. He also claimed the government lacked credible voices to explain its economic strategies to the public.

However, the SLM coalition has come to Tinubu’s defense, stating that the economic measures being implemented by his administration are already beginning to positively affect the lives of Nigerians. In a press briefing held in Abuja on Monday, Dr. Agabi Emmanuel, convener of the coalition, emphasized that the government’s proactive approach is tackling the nation’s economic challenges head-on.

The coalition pointed to key reforms, including the removal of fuel subsidies and the floating of the Naira, which they believe have helped restore confidence in the economy. They also highlighted the formation of the Presidential Economic Coordination Council (PECC) and the Economic Management Team Emergency Taskforce (EET), which they say have strengthened the country’s economic governance structures.

According to the SLM, the Tinubu administration’s commitment to infrastructure development, particularly in roads, railways, and energy, is expected to stimulate economic growth by reducing transportation costs and improving access to markets. Public-private partnerships are also playing a significant role in these developments.

Additionally, the coalition praised the government’s efforts in advancing Nigeria’s digital economy through initiatives such as the Digital Nigeria Program, which focuses on broadband expansion and fostering tech startups. They argued that these initiatives are driving innovation, increasing financial inclusion, and creating job opportunities, especially for the youth.

The coalition also pointed to the Food Security and Agricultural Mechanization Programme and the National Agriculture Growth Scheme-Agro-pocket as policies that have the potential to boost local food production and reduce dependence on imports. They commended the president for declaring a state of emergency in the agriculture sector, reinforcing the administration’s commitment to addressing food security and agriculture challenges.

In the health sector, the coalition praised Tinubu’s introduction of transformative initiatives, including the Health Sector Renewal Investment Initiative, which has secured $2.2 billion in external financing. The redesigned Basic Health Care Provision Fund (BHCPF) and the National Health Insurance Authority Act (NHIAA) aim to ensure universal health coverage (UHC) for Nigerians, further strengthening the healthcare system.

The SLM also commended the administration’s focus on education reforms, including the “#WeAreEqual” campaign promoting inclusive education and gender equity, as well as policies targeting out-of-school children, teacher training, and skill development.

Lastly, the coalition emphasized that Tinubu’s budget prioritizes national defense, internal security, job creation, and macroeconomic stability. They noted that the administration’s efforts to overhaul the internal security architecture and promote public-private partnerships will optimize the investment environment and contribute to long-term growth.

In conclusion, the Socialist Liberation Movement lauded President Tinubu’s transformative economic policies, arguing that his administration is on a promising trajectory to create a better Nigeria for both the current generation and future generations. The coalition believes that by implementing bold economic reforms and investing in key sectors, the government is demonstrating its commitment to improving the welfare and prosperity of Nigerian citizens.