What Nigerians must do in the Tinubu era

In the wake of Nigeria’s transition to a new era, the nation stands at a pivotal crossroads, where the hopes and aspirations of millions of Nigerians intersect. The ascension of Bola Ahmed Tinubu to the leadership role presents an unparalleled opportunity for profound positive change and progress. His inaugural speech reverberates with a resounding call to action, resonating deeply with the very ideals that Nigeria needs to propel itself forward. As a nation, it is imperative that we unite, transcending our political differences and embracing the transformative vision that President Tinubu has articulated. Now is the time to harness the collective power of our diverse nation and propel Nigeria toward a future of unparalleled growth, prosperity, and unity.

President Tinubu’s clarion call for unity indeed reverberates through the very fabric of our nation’s soul – its breath-taking diversity. Like a vibrant tapestry woven from the threads of various ethnicities, religions, and cultures, our shared identity as Nigerians possesses an extraordinary power that transcends any differences seeking to fragment us. Now, more than ever, we stand at a precipice, where our collective strength and unwavering collaboration hold the key to conquering the formidable challenges that lie before us – be they economic, social, or political in nature.

In this pivotal moment, partisan politics and divisive rhetoric have no place within our collective vision. Instead, we are summoned to ascend beyond the fray and grasp the opportunity that beckons us toward national unity and progress. It is an opportunity that implores us to put aside our differences, unfasten the barriers that barricade our hearts, and march forward hand in hand, bound by an unyielding commitment to constructing a Nigeria that knows no bounds. Together, we possess the power to forge a path toward a future that celebrates the resplendent tapestry of our nation’s diversity. It is a future where the melodies of different tongues harmonize in symphony, where the colours of myriad cultures intermingle to create a masterpiece of inclusivity, and where the aspirations of every Nigerian find fertile ground to sprout and flourish.

Let us embark on this transformative journey, driven by the unwavering belief that our shared destiny lies in the realization of a prosperous, inclusive, and harmonious Nigeria. As we navigate the challenges ahead, let our diversity serve as our compass, guiding us towards innovative solutions that nurture progress and uplift every corner of our great nation. In the vibrant mosaic of Nigeria, we find strength in our unity, and in our unity, we find the resilience to overcome any obstacle that dares stand in our way. Together, let us march forward, inspired by the unwavering spirit of our forefathers, towards a future where the Nigerian dream becomes an extraordinary reality. President Tinubu’s inaugural speech bares it all.

With an unwavering determination to tackle one of Nigeria’s most pressing issues, he has underscored the utmost importance of prioritizing security. It is a known fact that our nation has grappled with a multitude of challenges, from the persistent threat of terrorism to the pervasive grasp of criminality. In the face of these trials, President Tinubu’s resolute commitment to reforming the security doctrine and fortifying the very architecture that safeguards our society is nothing short of commendable. As responsible citizens, it is incumbent upon us to rally behind these concerted efforts, forming an unbreakable bond with our government to forge a safe and secure environment for every Nigerian. In this noble endeavor, our united support will pave the way for a flourishing nation, where economic growth can flourish unimpeded, social harmony can permeate every corner of our society, and individual prosperity can be achieved by all. By bolstering our security apparatus, we fortify the pillars upon which our dreams are built. We instill a renewed sense of confidence in our fellow Nigerians, both at home and abroad, demonstrating that we are resolute in our pursuit of a brighter future. It is only through a steadfast commitment to this cause, through our unwavering solidarity, that we can lay the foundation for a Nigeria that transcends the shackles of fear and embraces the limitless potential that resides within us.

Indeed, let us come together, casting aside our differences, to lend our unwavering support to President Tinubu’s visionary agenda for security reform. By doing so, we not only honour the sacrifices of our brave security forces but also pave the way for a nation that stands tall amidst adversity, united in its resolve to protect the lives and well-being of its citizens.

As we march forward hand in hand, let our collective voice resonate across the land, reaffirming our commitment to a Nigeria where every child can dream without fear, every entrepreneur can thrive without constraint, and every community can flourish under the protective umbrella of security. It is through our collective will, and our resolute determination, that we will leave a lasting legacy for generations to come – a Nigeria that embodies strength, resilience, and unwavering unity.

Similarly, President Tinubu’s unwavering focus on igniting economic growth and fostering job creation holds the key to unlocking a brighter future for millions of Nigerians. With a well-crafted blueprint that emphasizes strategic budgetary reforms, forward-thinking industrial policies, and robust infrastructure development, his vision sets the stage for transformative change and progress. In recognizing the significance of these comprehensive plans, we have a unique opportunity to rally behind the government, united in our shared pursuit of an environment that nurtures investment, sparks innovation, and empowers entrepreneurship. By casting aside our differences and embracing this common goal, we can unleash the immense potential that lies within Nigeria’s vibrant economy, and in doing so, uplift the lives of our fellow citizens who are yearning for a better tomorrow.

I have no doubt that upon President Tinubu’s strategic budgetary reforms lay the foundation for prudent fiscal management, ensuring that resources are allocated wisely and transparently. This approach fosters an atmosphere of confidence and stability, encouraging both local and international investors to partake in our nation’s economic journey. As we witness increased investment flowing into the country, we can envision a future where new industries emerge, existing businesses thrive, and employment opportunities abound for our skilled and industrious workforce.

Moreover, the emphasis on robust industrial policies signals a resolute commitment to diversify our economy and reduce dependence on any single sector. By promoting sectors such as manufacturing, agriculture, and technology, we can build a resilient economic ecosystem that withstands global shocks and propels Nigeria towards self-sufficiency. This renewed focus will not only create jobs but also enhance the value chain, fostering innovation, and creating a conducive environment for small and medium-sized enterprises to flourish.

To complement these measures, President Tinubu’s unwavering dedication to enhancing infrastructure development is a critical pillar of his economic agenda. By investing in modern transportation networks, reliable energy systems, and cutting-edge digital infrastructure, we lay the groundwork for a connected and prosperous nation. Improved infrastructure not only facilitates the movement of goods and services but also spurs regional integration, attracting investments and unlocking new opportunities in previously untapped regions.

As we stand at the precipice of this transformative journey, it is our collective responsibility to support President Tinubu’s economic vision. By fostering an environment that encourages collaboration, innovation, and entrepreneurship, we can collectively shape a Nigeria that transcends the limitations of the present and opens up a world of possibilities for all our citizens. Let us harness the power of unity and work hand in hand, unlocking the vast potential of our economy and ushering in an era of shared prosperity and fulfillment. President Tinubu’s resolute commitment to revolutionizing the agricultural sector heralds a momentous stride towards attaining both food security and economic prosperity for our beloved nation. Embracing a visionary approach, his transformative agenda encompasses multifaceted measures such as the establishment of commodity exchange boards, the enhancement of storage facilities, and the promotion of value-added processing.

Central to this ambitious vision is the empowerment of our hardworking farmers, the unsung heroes who toil under the sun to feed our nation. By providing them with access to commodity exchange boards, President Tinubu aims to create fair and transparent marketplaces that ensure their produce fetches optimal prices. This not only safeguards their livelihoods but also serves as an impetus for them to expand their agricultural activities, contributing to the overall growth of the sector.

Furthermore, the focus on improving storage facilities is a testament to President Tinubu’s keen understanding of the challenges faced by farmers in preserving their harvest. By addressing this critical issue, we can mitigate post-harvest losses and reduce waste significantly. Modern storage infrastructure will not only safeguard the quality and quantity of agricultural produce but also facilitate efficient supply chain management, ensuring that our farmers receive the maximum returns on their hard work.

Mr. President’s emphasis on value-added processing marks a transformative shift from traditional subsistence farming to a more lucrative and sustainable model. By encouraging the processing of agricultural commodities into value-added products, we can tap into new domestic and international markets, expanding revenue streams for our farmers and creating employment opportunities along the agricultural value chain. This approach adds value to our agricultural output, ultimately contributing to the growth of our economy and positioning Nigeria as a competitive player in the global marketplace.

As citizens, it is our collective responsibility to support and champion these initiatives. By rallying behind President Tinubu’s vision for agricultural transformation, we can secure our nation’s food sufficiency, reduce our reliance on imports, and enhance our agricultural exports. This, in turn, will strengthen our economy, create new avenues for economic growth, and uplift the lives of our fellow citizens who depend on the agricultural sector for their livelihoods.

Let us unite in our commitment to sustainable agriculture, recognizing that it holds the key to unlocking the full potential of Nigeria’s vast agricultural resources. By supporting President Tinubu’s transformative agenda, we can lay the foundation for a prosperous Nigeria, where our farmers thrive, our people are well-nourished, and our nation stands as a shining example of agricultural excellence. Together, let us sow the seeds of a bountiful future and reap the rewards of a vibrant and resilient agricultural sector.

The vision put forth by President Tinubu for a modern and prosperous Nigeria is underscored by his unwavering commitment to bolstering our nation’s infrastructure. Recognizing that a robust infrastructure network forms the very foundation of a thriving economy, his dedication to building upon the efforts of the immediate past administration by improving roads, expanding rail networks, and modernizing ports stand as a testament to his profound understanding of the pivotal role that infrastructure plays in driving economic development.

With every road that is widened, every rail network that is extended, and every port that is modernized, President Tinubu paves the way for enhanced connectivity within our nation. These transformative efforts will not only facilitate the seamless movement of goods and services but also reduce transportation costs, bolster trade, and attract investments. By investing in our infrastructure, we create an enabling environment that nurtures entrepreneurship, sparks innovation, and accelerates economic growth.

Improved road networks will connect previously isolated communities, fostering social integration and empowering individuals with greater access to education, healthcare, and employment opportunities. Additionally, the expansion of rail networks will revolutionize the way we travel, providing efficient and reliable means of transportation that alleviate congestion on our roads. This will not only enhance the quality of life for our citizens but also stimulate regional development by connecting previously underserved areas with major economic hubs.

Furthermore, the modernization of our ports will boost our international trade capabilities, enabling us to compete effectively in the global marketplace. Upgraded port facilities will streamline cargo handling, reduce turnaround times, and enhance logistics efficiency, making Nigeria an attractive destination for both domestic and foreign investors. By strengthening our ports, we position ourselves as a gateway for trade and investment, fostering economic diversification and job creation. As citizens, we have a vital role to play in supporting these infrastructure initiatives. It is incumbent upon us to recognize the transformative impact that enhanced connectivity can have on our lives and the overall progress of our nation. By rallying behind President Tinubu’s vision, we can contribute to the realization of a modern Nigeria that is connected, efficient, and competitive on the global stage.

Let us embrace this opportunity to unite as a nation, transcending political and ideological differences, and join hands in building the infrastructure that will propel Nigeria into a brighter future. By investing in our roads, railways, and ports, we invest in the prosperity of our nation and the well-being of future generations. Together, let us lay the foundation for a modern Nigeria that stands tall among the comity of nations, where seamless connectivity serves as the catalyst for economic growth, social progress, and national pride.

Significantly, President Tinubu’s foreign policy outlook heralds a new era of regional stability and collective prosperity for Nigeria. Understanding the interconnectedness of our nation with the African continent, he emphasizes the significance of engaging with regional organizations such as the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and forging strong partnerships with international allies. Through these diplomatic efforts, Nigeria can assume a leadership role in resolving conflicts and driving economic growth across Africa. As Nigerians, it is imperative that we stand united in supporting President Tinubu’s diplomatic initiatives. By actively participating in regional and international collaborations, we demonstrate our commitment to promoting peace, stability, and shared prosperity. Nigeria, with its vast resources and diverse talent, is well-positioned to contribute to the resolution of conflicts that plague our neighbouring nations, thereby fostering an environment of peace and security within the region.

Furthermore, by working closely with ECOWAS and other regional bodies, Nigeria can play a pivotal role in formulating policies and strategies that address common challenges such as terrorism, transnational crime, and economic inequality. President Tinubu’s vision goes beyond Nigeria’s borders, recognizing that our nation’s progress is intricately linked to the progress of our neighbouring countries. By fostering cooperation, trade, and investment within the region, we can create a ripple effect that amplifies economic opportunities for all.

Engaging with international partners also allows Nigeria to tap into a broader network of expertise, resources, and market opportunities. By strengthening alliances with countries around the world, we can attract foreign investments, foster technological exchange, and gain access to global markets. These partnerships will not only accelerate our economic growth but also provide avenues for knowledge sharing and capacity building, empowering our citizens and industries to thrive in a globalized world.

By embracing our responsibility as a regional leader, Nigeria can set a positive example and inspire other nations to follow suit. Our commitment to regional stability and collective prosperity demonstrates our dedication to the well-being of our continent as a whole. As citizens, we must rally behind President Tinubu’s foreign policy vision, understanding that a stable and prosperous region benefits Nigeria in numerous ways, including increased trade, enhanced security, and strengthened diplomatic ties. In supporting these diplomatic efforts, we contribute to a brighter future for all Africans. We become advocates for peace, champions of economic development, and ambassadors of Nigeria’s unwavering commitment to regional stability. Together, let us seize this opportunity to shape the trajectory of our continent, forging a path towards a harmonious Africa where every nation thrives, and every citizen can unlock their full potential.

As Nigeria embarks on a new chapter in its history, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s inaugural speech has set the stage for transformative change. It is our collective responsibility as citizens to set aside our differences and support this new government wholeheartedly. By embracing President Tinubu’s vision and working together, we can overcome challenges, forge a united nation, and build a brighter future for all Nigerians. Let us rally behind President Tinubu and contribute to the realization of a prosperous, inclusive, and thriving Nigeria.

Henry Anibe Agbonika is a Policy and Governance Reform Consultant based in Abuja, Nigeria. He can be reached on [email protected]