President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s bold and unwavering reforms have earned him the THISDAY Man of the Year 2024 award, acknowledging his resilience and determination in steering Nigeria through challenging times. This recognition comes after a period of significant economic strain, during which tens of foreign companies left Nigeria and many local businesses were forced to shut down. Despite these setbacks, Tinubu has remained committed to his reform agenda, which aims to reshape Nigeria’s economy and governance.
The award was given in recognition of Tinubu’s audacious reforms, aimed at steering Nigeria towards a better future. In his only media interview, the president stated, “You can’t be doing the same thing and expect different outcomes,” signaling his firm resolve to pursue these necessary reforms, regardless of the consequences.
Tinubu’s presidency, still in its infancy at less than two years old, has seen him navigate some of the most tumultuous periods in recent Nigerian history. His administration has been marked by leadership that transcends mere rhetoric, focusing instead on tough, long-term decisions. These policies, often unpopular but crucial for Nigeria’s future, demonstrate his dedication to the nation’s well-being.
One of the most significant and challenging decisions made by Tinubu was the removal of the petroleum subsidy. While this decision had been on the table since the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari, it was Tinubu who had to shoulder the consequences. Similarly, the president took a bold step by floating the naira, allowing it to find its natural level against other currencies, particularly the dollar, in a bid to stabilize the economy.
Despite the hardships these reforms have brought upon the Nigerian people, Tinubu’s leadership remains steadfast. He recognized that the country’s financial autonomy and the effective governance of local governments required confronting powerful political forces, including state governors. His decision to advocate for local government financial autonomy, even at the risk of political fallout, has underscored his commitment to structural reforms.
The president’s tax reforms, currently under review by the 10th National Assembly, have further solidified his stance on fairness and fiscal responsibility. While some critics argue that these reforms disproportionately affect certain regions, Tinubu remains resolute, stating during a recent media chat that there would be no reversal of these policies.
However, these tough decisions have not come without controversy. The Organized Crime and Corruption Reporting Project (OCCRP) named Tinubu among the Top Most Corrupt Person of the Year in Organized Crime and Corruption 2024, a report that has sparked significant debate. Despite this, Tinubu has continued to press forward with his reform agenda, asserting that his decisions are in the long-term best interests of the country.
In response to the economic hardships caused by some of these tough decisions, Tinubu has introduced several measures to ease the burden on citizens. Notably, the introduction of compressed natural gas (CNG) buses has provided a buffer to mitigate the impact of fuel subsidy removal. Furthermore, his administration has allocated unprecedented amounts of financial assistance to state governments, in addition to rolling out palliative measures to address the socio-economic challenges faced by Nigerians.
In the international arena, Tinubu’s leadership has been equally impactful. As Chairman of ECOWAS, he has faced the difficult task of addressing the political instability in neighboring countries such as Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso, which have experienced unconstitutional changes in government. Despite initial challenges, Tinubu’s diplomatic approach aims to find solutions that embrace wisdom and reconciliation.
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While there have been some missteps along the way, particularly in the early days of his presidency, Tinubu’s resilience has shone through. His unwavering commitment to his vision for Nigeria, even in the face of criticism, has earned him the respect of both his supporters and adversaries. Whether criticized or lauded, there is no denying Tinubu’s courage to make tough decisions for the greater good of Nigeria. Though there are areas for improvement, particularly in terms of consultation and inclusivity, Tinubu’s leadership and reforms have undeniably marked him as one of the most consequential figures of 2024. His approach to governance, rooted in boldness and resilience, has made him deserving of the THISDAY Man of the Year award.
