The secretary to the government of the federation (SGF), George Akume, says Nigeria has witnessed symbolic strides in several sectors of the economy since President Bola Tinubu assumed office in May 2023.
The Tinubu administration has rolled out a cluster of policies that have intensified the economic hardship on Nigerians — prominently the removal of subsidy on petrol and the floatation of the naira.
Whilst speaking at the ‘Ministerial Sectoral Updates’ in Abuja on Wednesday, Akume stated that the current administration has also rolled out social intervention programmes to alleviate the hardship.
“I make bold to say that, Nigeria, under its present stewardship, has witnessed significant policy strides in various sectors including but not limited to,” the SGF said.
“i. The Presidential assent to the 2023 Electricity Bill, a move that dismantled monopolistic control over electricity generation, transmission and distribution at the national level and granted authority to State Governments, Corporations and individuals to generate, distribute and transmit electricity, thus decentralizing the power sector;
“ii. Assent to the passage into law of the Nigeria Data Protection Bill 2023 that established a legal framework for safeguarding personal information and promoting data protection practices in Nigeria; and
“iii. The challenging but very necessary Removal of Fuel Subsidy, a longstanding policy notorious for fostering corruption, inefficiency and imposing significant fiscal strain on the government annually, and primarily benefitting the affluent and smugglers, rather than effectively aiding the general populace.
“It is apt to say that under President Tinubu’s stewardship within his first year in office, we have witnessed significant strides in various sectors of our economy.
“Through prudent fiscal policies and strategic investments, the Nigerian economy has shown resilience and potential for growth.
“The administration’s focus on infrastructure development, job creation and economic diversification has laid the foundation for sustainable progress and prosperity for all Nigerians.
“Furthermore, the government’s commitment to good governance and the rule of law has strengthened our democratic institutions and enhanced transparency and accountability in governance.”
The SGF also mentioned that citizens should be part of nation building because it is not the singular responsibility of government.
“Let us therefore rededicate ourselves to the ideals of unity, peace and progress by working together towards realizing the full potential of our great nation,” Akume added.