In the words of the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo, “The primary responsibility of leadership is catering for and promoting its people to the end so that they may live a full and happy life.” This profound statement encapsulates the essence of governance: to recognize the dignity of citizens and to work diligently towards enhancing their quality of life. Unfortunately, this vision seems increasingly distant for many Nigerians, who are grappling with hyperinflation, an escalating cost of living, and a chaotic oil and gas sector.
Since assuming office, President Bola Tinubu pledged to usher in a new era of hope for Nigeria. His administration garnered support from citizens who rallied behind him following his controversial inauguration on May 29, 2023, a moment marked by calls for patience and understanding. However, as the months progressed, the populace became disillusioned when it became evident that the government was neither committed to reducing the cost of governance nor curbing the misallocation of public funds.
By September 21 2024, public frustration reached a boiling point, resulting in widespread protests across the country. Such unrest signifies more than mere dissatisfaction; it reflects the escalating crisis within the petroleum industry, where citizens are forced to pay over 1,000 naira per liter for fuel while struggling to access it. Long queues at filling stations have become a common sight, with individuals spending up to N50,000 in fuel costs only to find their vehicles empty a few days later. This situation is not only unsustainable but unacceptable.
The sense of frustration among Nigerians is palpable. Many citizens believe that the challenges facing the nation extend beyond the president himself, pointing fingers at his advisers and aides, whom they deem inept or unwilling to address the pressing issues at hand.
One of the most contentious decisions made by President Tinubu was to appoint himself as the Minister of Petroleum, thereby overseeing the largest cabinet in Nigeria’s history. This appointment raises significant concerns about the effectiveness of governance. If the president truly wishes to lead effectively, he must relinquish the role of petroleum minister and instead appoint a skilled individual to manage this critical sector.
In May, President Tinubu expressed his willingness to relieve any cabinet member who fails to meet the expectations of the Nigerian people. However, if the current trajectory of his administration continues, it appears that the cabinet may be racing towards failure. The national grid has collapsed multiple times this year, essential infrastructure projects from previous administrations have been abandoned, and food insecurity remains rampant despite various agricultural initiatives.
The petroleum sector, in particular, is in disarray. Issues such as rampant oil theft undermine Nigeria’s OPEC quotas, severely affecting the nation’s revenue. The midstream sector, responsible for the transportation and processing of oil, suffers from outdated facilities, while the downstream sector grapples with an ongoing fuel crisis. Despite the hope surrounding the Dangote Refinery as a potential solution, countervailing forces have hampered its progress.
Ending the subsidy regime on fuel could have been a positive step towards economic reform, yet the increased federal allocations to states have left many citizens bewildered. The anticipated benefits have yet to reach the average Nigerian, leaving them questioning the effectiveness of the government’s policies.
The challenges are immense, and the responsibilities facing President Tinubu are substantial, particularly as he also chairs the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). It is imperative for him to delegate the management of the petroleum sector to a competent technocrat who can focus on the intricacies of this critical industry.
As commander-in-chief, President Tinubu must prioritize the security of the nation, which is threatened by escalating incidents of banditry, terrorism, and violent crime. The situation has become increasingly dire, with reports of attacks on community leaders and public figures being broadcasted on social media, further heightening the sense of insecurity.
Nigeria’s infrastructure is in critical condition, and the Food and Agricultural Organization has reported that over 26.5 million people are experiencing acute hunger this year. Predictions indicate that by 2030, this number could rise to 82 million facing severe food insecurity. The pressing need for decisive action is evident, and it begins with the president taking a hard look at his administration’s performance.
The path forward requires a commitment to accountability, starting with the president stepping down as the minister of petroleum. Only through decisive leadership and a willingness to hold non-performing ministers and aides accountable can Nigeria hope to emerge from this current malaise.
In conclusion, President Tinubu’s leadership is at a crossroads. By relinquishing the role of petroleum minister and focusing on his broader responsibilities as president, he can restore faith in his administration and work towards creating a Nigeria that fosters dignity, security, and prosperity for all its citizens. As Lawal Dahiru Mamman writes from Abuja, the time for action is now; the future of Nigeria depends on it.
