President Bola Tinubu’s Assurance On Economic Reforms Sparks Debate Among Nigerians....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

President Bola Tinubu has affirmed that his administration is actively reforming the economy, despite the significant hardships that may accompany these changes. What are your thoughts on the President’s assurances?

I would like to express my gratitude to Almighty Allah and the people of Nigeria, especially Kwara State and my federal constituency, for entrusting us with the opportunity to serve in the National Assembly. Nigeria is celebrating its 63rd year of independence. During the colonial era, our nation was under foreign rule, and we lacked self-governance. It has been about 63 years since we gained independence and started governing ourselves. When we consider the current economic situation and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Independence Day speech, it rekindles hope, particularly for the youth who make up a significant portion of our society. They are the ones who stand to benefit from the ongoing efforts of the current administration.

Throughout Nigeria’s history, from the colonial period to the present, various challenges and issues have arisen. Corruption has been a persistent problem, and its roots can be traced back to the colonial era when foreign powers exploited our resources. However, the present administration is taking a different approach. It has abolished the fuel subsidy, which was often used as a cover for siphoning off our resources by a select few who dominated the oil importation sector. This government is saying no to such practices.

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The removal of the subsidy on premium motor spirit (PMS) is expected to cause temporary discomfort, especially for those in rural areas who may not fully understand the concept of subsidy. As federal legislators, it is our responsibility to reassure our constituents that President Buhari’s actions are in the right direction. We must ask for their patience, as this period of hardship will ultimately lead to a brighter future where our resources are utilized transparently and for the benefit of all.

However, the issue is not limited to subsidy removal. We are fortunate that information dissemination has become easier with the advent of social media, allowing us to stay informed about ongoing reforms. Nigeria has matured as a nation, and we should have undertaken these reforms earlier.

Regarding the organized labor’s threat to shut down the nation if their demands for post-subsidy removal palliatives are not met, labor is justified in making these demands. As a farmer, I understand that the cost of production is high, with elevated prices for agricultural inputs like fertilizer and chemicals. Agriculture is crucial for our food security, and someone must speak out about the impact of government policies on the people. Constructive criticism is essential for any democracy to thrive. Labor should express its concerns, but it must also consider the consequences of a full-scale strike on the economy.

Labor should allow the National Assembly to intervene and include their issues in the 2024 budget. Additionally, the role of the Revenue Mobilization, Allocation, and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC) is pivotal in determining wages and related matters. Labor should be mindful of the impact on the education sector, as schools have recently resumed, and the strike could affect students, both in public and private institutions.

Considering the rising cost of food items, especially as a farmer, what key areas in agriculture do you believe the government should prioritize to ensure food sufficiency in the country?

To address the rising cost of food items, the government should focus on several key areas in agriculture. First, as seen during the Great Depression of the 1930s, when prices of goods and services were high, government intervention in agriculture is essential. The government should provide subsidies and support to boost the agricultural sector.

With the removal of fuel subsidy, petrol prices should be determined by market demand and supply, ensuring product availability. The government should redirect the funds saved from the subsidy into agriculture. This support could include reducing or eliminating taxes, customs duties, and other fees related to the importation of agricultural inputs such as fertilizers and herbicides. Additionally, the government should establish fertilizer plants to produce and sell NPK fertilizer at a reasonable price, ensuring it is accessible to farmers.

Furthermore, the government should focus on irrigation systems to enable farmers to cultivate crops multiple times a year. This increased productivity would help stabilize prices and reduce the cost of food items. By supporting smallholder farmers and investing in agriculture, the government can strengthen the entire value chain, ensuring that food items are readily available and affordable.

Do you support calls for the reopening of the borders to allow food items into the country and alleviate the rising cost of food?

I do not support calls for the reopening of the borders to allow food items into the country. Even if the borders were reopened, the quality of imported food items may not meet the necessary standards. Many of these items have been stored for extended periods, and some may not be fit for consumption. Additionally, international conflicts, such as the one between Russia and Ukraine, have led countries to restrict exports and hold onto their food reserves.

It is essential for Nigeria to continue focusing on consuming locally produced goods to ensure food security and safeguard public health. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the importance of self-sufficiency in food production became evident. Relying on food imports can be risky, and it is in our best interest to support and consume what we produce domestically. This approach promotes healthier eating habits and strengthens our economy. Instead of reopening the borders, the government should continue to invest in and support smallholder farmers to boost local production and reduce food costs for the benefit of all Nigerians.