Tinubu’s Unprecedented Aid vs. Governors’ Inefficiencies: Contrasting Nigeria’s Leadership

by Osigwe Omo-Ikirodah

A nation’s leader, akin to a father figure, provides emotional support, guidance, and unity to the populace during challenging times. They act as a mentor and role model, embodying values and ethics that shape the character of the nation.

In Nigeria, the president often implements measures that provide some relief to citizens during challenging times. But not every lawmaker and governor is as committed to and has the same vision. Despite this disparity, the populace tends to direct most of their criticism and attention towards the president.

Presently, Nigeria grapples with a blend of economic issues, including stagflation and inflationary pressure, closely linked to the global economic crisis. During such trying times, a leader, like the president, assumes the role of a nurturing figure, steering the country through hardships and implementing measures to foster a resilient and thriving economy.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has shown remarkable compassion towards the people, demonstrating acts that reflect care and support. His initiatives, such as substantial palliatives, wage awards, and support for transportation, reflect a sincere effort to alleviate the citizens’ plight during tough times.

Here is an overview of some relief measures provided by the president:

• 50% slash on bus transportation during the yuletide season.
• Free train services during the yuletide season.
• N100 Million worth of palliatives to each house of reps members.
• N200 million worth of palliatives to each senator.
• N35,000 provisional wage award for civil servants for 2 months.
• N185 billion shared to 36 states and the FCT Abuja for palliative measures.
• Zero customs duty and VAT on CNG conversion kits imports.
• Distribution of rice to State governors for sharing in the states.
• N25,000 conditional cash transfers to vulnerable Nigerians.

However, the actions of many governors and legislators have raised concerns about their commitment and transparency in effectively distributing relief measures. The focus remains on these local representatives, who are ideally tasked with efficiently disbursing relief to their constituents.

Nigerians must hold their governors and legislators accountable for their actions, as the progress and well-being of the nation largely hinge upon their dedication to serve their communities effectively. Furthermore, there have been allegations that governors have taken control of their local government chairmen, thereby denying grassroots communities access to essential resources and development.

Despite the state governors’ and legislators’ proximity and accessibility to the people, the Federal Government often bears the brunt of blame for societal challenges. This shift in responsibility draws focus away from these local representatives, who must be held responsible for effectively serving their communities.

If merely 70% of our state governors and National Assembly representatives operated at the proficiency level of Nigeria’s least effective president in the nation’s history, Nigeria would stand as a formidable competitor alongside global giants like China, the United States, India, Russia, and other prominent nations.

While President Tinubu’s compassion is evident, citizens must equally apply pressure and hold their local representatives accountable, particularly for their role in local governance and ensuring equitable distribution of resources for grassroots development.