As Christians around the nation celebrate Easter, a collective message of hope and assurance has been echoed by governors, senators, and prominent figures, urging Nigerians to remain resilient amid the current economic challenges. These sentiments were shared in their Easter messages, emphasizing the belief that the economic reforms initiated by President Bola Tinubu are on the verge of ushering in a period of relief from hardship.
Since assuming office on May 29, 2023, President Tinubu made a significant policy shift by abolishing the long-standing fuel subsidy, a move that, despite its immediate impact on fuel prices and living costs, is seen as a crucial step towards rectifying the country’s financial imbalance. The subsidy scheme, which cost Nigeria N1.57 trillion in 2021 and escalated to N4.39 trillion in 2022, was deemed unsustainable.
This bold step has already begun to yield positive outcomes, with an increase in financial allocations to states and local governments and a notable improvement in the nation’s fiscal standing. The subsidy removal alone has raised the average monthly disbursement from the Federation Accounts Allocation Committee from N620 billion to about N1.09 trillion.
Further, Tinubu’s administration has taken steps to unify the exchange rates and has committed to accelerating the nation’s economic growth to a minimum of six percent annually. These reforms aim to foster an environment that encourages investment, job creation, and overall economic prosperity.
Governor Babagana Zulum of Borno State specifically called upon the Christian community to pray for President Tinubu, seeking divine guidance for him to lead Nigeria towards greatness. Similarly, Akwa Ibom’s Governor Umo Eno and Ogun’s Governor Dapo Abiodun echoed the message of hope, urging Nigerians to remain optimistic about the future despite current economic strains.
In Lagos, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu appealed to residents to embody the spirit of Christ by adjusting the prices of goods in line with the appreciating naira, promising that the nation’s economic hardships will soon alleviate. His sentiments were mirrored by governors and senators across the country, who highlighted the need for unity, sacrifice, and continued support for the leadership as it navigates through these trying times.
As Nigeria reflects on the essence of Easter, the collective leadership calls for patience, faith, and unity, reassuring citizens that the current economic reforms will pave the way for a brighter and more prosperous future.
