Ahead of the first anniversary of President Bola Tinubu’s administration, Dr. Celestine Chukwunenye, a member of the All Progressives Congress (APC), has shared his positive verdict on its progress, stating that there is something to celebrate. In an interview, Chukwunenye, an APC stalwart in Ejigbo, Lagos State, acknowledged that while many of the administration’s policies have caused hardship, there is hope for improvement.
“Nigerians should not give up hope. In subsequent years, it would turn out to be better than this. The government is trying its best. We hope that in the remaining years of the administration, we will have to thank and look forward to more fruitful years,” Chukwunenye stated.
Reflecting on President Tinubu’s declaration on his inauguration day that “Fuel subsidy is gone. It is not provided for in the budget,” Chukwunenye questioned whether the subsidy had indeed been eliminated. He noted that while it appeared to be in the early weeks of the administration, the current situation is less clear.
He remarked that the controversial policy of floating the Naira against foreign currencies has worsened the situation, causing higher costs for imported goods and petroleum products. Despite this, Chukwunenye expressed optimism that conditions will improve over time. He challenged the common belief that prices never drop in Nigeria, asserting that some prices have fallen and more will follow.
On the issue of a standard minimum wage, Chukwunenye sided with workers, advising the government to adjust the minimum wage to reflect current prices. He argued that increasing Nigerians’ purchasing power through better pay would help reduce inflation.
Chukwunenye explained that the exchange rate influences various economic factors, spiking prices. He noted that rising exchange rates lead to higher transportation costs for farmers, increased school fees, and more expensive household appliances, all contributing to higher food prices.
In his assessment of the Tinubu administration’s policies, Chukwunenye identified two major issues. First, he pointed out that no government refinery is currently operational. Refining crude oil abroad is more costly and results in the loss of valuable chemicals derived from crude oil. He urged the government to focus on boosting the economy by addressing this issue.
Looking to the future, Chukwunenye advised the government to consolidate its policies in its second year. He called for the Student Loan Scheme to be fully operational, significant improvements in crude oil refining capacity, completion of more roads, and the construction of railways to enhance transportation. He also emphasized the need to reduce insecurity, strengthen the anti-corruption fight, and ensure agricultural credits reach genuine farmers.
In addition, Chukwunenye stressed that palliatives should be directed to the truly needy. As a medical doctor, he urged the government to improve healthcare facilities for providers and enhance the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) for better performance. He criticized the efforts of some governors to replicate the NHIS, suggesting instead that they should work to improve its effectiveness in their states.