President Tinubu’s First Year in Office: A Year of Challenges and Hardships for Nigerians

By Matthew Eloyi

As President Bola Ahmed Tinubu marks his first year in office on May 29, 2024, the nation reflects on a year characterized by both high expectations and profound challenges. Tinubu’s presidency began with promises of economic rejuvenation, security enhancement, and comprehensive governance reforms. However, the reality of his first year has been stark, as many Nigerians grapple with increasing hardships and persistent difficulties.

One of the most pressing issues under Tinubu’s administration has been the state of the economy. The Nigerian economy, already fragile due to years of mismanagement and global economic shocks, faced further strains. Inflation has skyrocketed, reaching unprecedented levels, and affecting the cost of living for millions of Nigerians. Basic commodities such as food, fuel, and healthcare have become prohibitively expensive for many, exacerbating the struggles of the average Nigerian family.

A significant decision that marked Tinubu’s tenure was the removal of fuel subsidies. While aimed at reducing government expenditure and encouraging economic stability in the long term, this move has had immediate adverse effects. The removal led to a sharp increase in fuel prices, which in turn has driven up transportation and production costs across the board. For many Nigerians, the removal of the subsidy has meant an erosion of their purchasing power and a daily struggle to make ends meet.

The issue of security has also been a critical area of concern. Despite efforts by the government to curb insurgency and criminal activities, many regions of the country continue to experience significant security challenges. Banditry, kidnapping, and communal clashes have persisted, leading to loss of lives and displacement of communities. The administration’s efforts, though earnest, have yet to yield the desired results in restoring peace and security across the nation.

Unemployment remains another significant challenge. While Tinubu’s administration has initiated several programmes aimed at job creation and youth empowerment, the impact of these initiatives has been limited. The youth, who form a large part of the population, continue to face high unemployment rates, leading to frustration and a sense of hopelessness. The promised economic opportunities have yet to materialize for many, leading to growing disenchantment with the government.

The social welfare programmes introduced by the Tinubu administration, such as conditional cash transfers and various poverty alleviation schemes, have not reached all intended beneficiaries effectively. Many vulnerable Nigerians still struggle to access basic necessities, and the social safety nets are often inadequate to meet the rising demands caused by economic pressures.

On a positive note, there have been strides in infrastructure development. The administration has embarked on several key projects aimed at improving the nation’s infrastructure, including road construction, railway expansion, and energy projects. These initiatives, if sustained, could provide a foundation for future economic growth. However, the immediate benefits of these projects are yet to be felt by the average Nigerian, who continues to face daily hardships.

Efforts to improve governance and reduce corruption have been part of Tinubu’s agenda. While there have been some moves towards greater transparency and accountability, corruption remains deeply entrenched. The perception of widespread corruption within government circles continues to undermine public trust and confidence in the administration.

As President Tinubu marks one year in office, his administration faces a complex set of challenges. While there have been some positive developments, the daily hardships faced by Nigerians cannot be overlooked. The rising cost of living, persistent insecurity, and high unemployment have overshadowed the initial promises of his presidency. The coming years will be crucial for Tinubu’s administration to address these pressing issues and deliver on the promises made to the Nigerian people.

For many Nigerians, the hope is that the lessons learned from the first year will translate into more effective policies and tangible improvements in their daily lives. As the nation looks forward, the expectations remain high, and the need for decisive, inclusive, and people-centred governance has never been more critical.