President Bola Tinubu’s New Year’s address was a carefully crafted balancing act. He acknowledged the nation’s economic anxieties – soaring inflation, unemployment, and the gnawing question of whether his administration’s “Renewed Hope Agenda” was delivering. Yet, he also sought to reassure Nigerians, outlining steps taken, ambitions for the future, and a call for collaborative action.
He said, “I am well aware that for some time now the conversations and debates have centred on the rising cost of living, high inflation which is now above 28% and the unacceptable high under-employment rate.
“From the boardrooms at Broad Street in Lagos to the main-streets of Kano and Nembe Creeks in Bayelsa, I hear the groans of Nigerians who work hard every day to provide for themselves and their families.
“I am not oblivious to the expressed and sometimes unexpressed frustrations of my fellow citizens. I know for a fact that some of our compatriots are even asking if this is how our administration wants to renew their hope.”
Headwinds Acknowledged: Tinubu did not shy away from the harsh realities. He painted a vivid picture, evoking the “groans” of citizens struggling to make ends meet, the frustration that “sometimes goes unexpressed,” and even the existential question of whether this administration was fulfilling its promises. This acknowledgement of hardship served as a crucial first step in engaging a restless populace.
Defending the Course: While acknowledging the challenges, Tinubu defended his administration’s record. He pointed to measures taken to tackle inflation, unemployment, and insecurity. He highlighted infrastructure projects, agricultural initiatives, and efforts to attract investments. Whether these claims hold up to scrutiny is a separate matter, but the attempt to demonstrate action was necessary to counter the narrative of inaction.
Ambitions Outlined: The President went beyond defending the present and laid out his vision for the future. He spoke of diversifying the economy, harnessing technology, and building a knowledge-based society. He mentioned specific goals like increasing electricity generation and improving healthcare. These aspirational statements, while lacking concrete details, offered a sense of direction and purpose, crucial for sustaining hope.
Call to Collective Action: Importantly, Tinubu recognized that national progress requires more than just government action. He urged Nigerians to play their part, emphasizing entrepreneurship, innovation, and responsible citizenship. This call for collective responsibility, while potentially seen as shifting blame, acknowledged the critical role individual actions play in shaping a nation’s destiny.
