The Nigerian Presidency, through Bayo Onanuga, assures that the country is progressing under President Bola Tinubu, addressing key national issues raised by the CBCN. Highlighting improvements in security and economic stability, the government reassures citizens amid challenges like unemployment and inflation, while initiatives aimed at job creation are also discussed.
The Presidency has reassured Nigerians of the country’s progress under President Bola Tinubu, despite concerns from the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) regarding various national challenges. This assurance was articulated in a statement by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser on Information and Strategy to the President, acknowledging persistent governance challenges yet emphasizing notable advancements in security, economic stability, and youth empowerment.
Onanuga’s responses followed a plenary meeting in Abuja, where CBCN President Archbishop Lucius Iwejuru raised alarming issues such as unemployment, insecurity, poverty, and corruption, urging prompt action from leaders. Onanuga affirmed the Tinubu administration’s appreciation for the bishops’ dedication to governance, noting, “The Conference of Catholic Bishops’ patriotic fervour… are unassailable and deeply valued.”
Regarding security, Onanuga asserted that Nigeria has improved since 2023, attributing this progress to the military and security forces’ efforts. He detailed that over 8,000 criminals have been apprehended, including bandits and Boko Haram members, while more than 10,000 individuals, primarily women and children, have been rescued. Enhanced security has purportedly allowed farmers to return to their fields, leading to increased food production and reduced commodity prices.
On the economic front, he declared that the Tinubu administration has stabilized Nigeria’s economy, enhancing its financial standing. He noted improvements in the balance of trade, strengthened foreign reserves, and moderating inflation, alongside the growing local refining capacity with projects like the Dangote Refinery.
Onanuga also highlighted job creation initiatives such as 3MTT, NATEP, LEEP, IDiCE, NiYA, and the Nigerian Youth Investment Fund, which are projected to create over 10 million jobs. Furthermore, he cited a significant increase in government spending on infrastructure, healthcare, education, and security, referencing a N54.9 trillion budget for 2025 aimed at economic revitalization.
International acclaim for Nigeria’s economic competitiveness was acknowledged, especially from Chatham House, which stated, “Nigeria’s economy has been most competitive in 25 years due to his reforms.” Despite acknowledging that many Nigerians are still grappling with economic challenges, Onanuga assured citizens that the government is making the right choices for a better future, committing to continue working toward a stronger Nigeria.
In contrast, Archbishop Iwejuru emphasized that Tinubu’s economic reforms have exacerbated inflation, driving millions into poverty due to rising prices of essentials, transportation, and petroleum products. He described the socio-economic landscape as increasingly harsh for many Nigerians.
The article emphasizes the Nigerian Presidency’s assertions regarding progress under President Bola Tinubu, notwithstanding the concerns raised by the CBCN about unemployment, insecurity, and poverty. It highlights significant advancements in security and the economy while acknowledging ongoing challenges. The government’s commitments to job creation and infrastructure spending suggest a focused drive for national improvement, despite criticisms regarding inflation and economic hardship faced by the populace.
Original Source: punchng.com
