Tinubu Defends Reforms, Claims Economic and Security Gains as Opposition Rejects Mid-Term Record.

Tinubu mid-term achievements have become a hot topic as President Bola Tinubu marks his two-year anniversary in office. He insists that Nigeria is on a path to recovery, citing improved security, economic growth, and bold reforms. However, his claims have been strongly rejected by opposition parties, who describe his administration as the worst in the country’s history and demand an apology to Nigerians.

Celebrating his mid-term, Tinubu listed what he called undeniable progress since he took office in May 2023. He pointed to a dramatic increase in external reserves, from $4 billion in 2023 to over $23 billion by the end of 2024, and claimed that inflation is easing, rice and staple prices are falling, and new investments are flowing into oil and gas. He also argued that his controversial decisions to remove fuel subsidies and devalue the naira were necessary to save Nigeria from economic collapse.

“Two years ago, you entrusted me with the sacred responsibility to lead our nation at a time of historic challenges. Together, we have faced these headwinds with courage and determination.” Tinubu

He explained that the removal of fuel subsidies and the unification of exchange rates were essential to stop the country from “drifting into the precipice,” saying these measures freed up funds for states, stabilized the economy, and made the Nigerian National Petroleum Company a net contributor to government finances.

The president also highlighted improvements in security, noting that collaboration among security agencies and better intelligence have led to safer highways and the return of farmers to previously dangerous areas. He praised the military and police for restoring order in troubled regions, especially in the North-West.

On the economy, Tinubu cited a narrowing fiscal deficit, a rise in tax-to-GDP ratio from 10% to over 13.5%, and the end of “wasteful and opaque tax waivers.” He said, “We have stabilised our economy and are now better positioned for growth and prepared to withstand global shocks.” He added that reforms are designed to reduce the cost of living, promote economic justice, and build a business-friendly environment.

The president also pointed to investments in health, education, and infrastructure, including the revitalization of thousands of primary health centers, new cancer treatment facilities, and expanded health insurance coverage. He emphasized youth empowerment initiatives and major road and energy projects across the country.

Despite these claims, opposition parties have dismissed Tinubu’s record. The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Labour Party (LP), and Coalition of United Political Parties (CUPP) argue that his policies have worsened hardship, insecurity, and poverty.

“It is both tragic and astonishing that Tinubu’s government has descended from the ridiculous to the unimaginable. For a man who has long presented himself as a champion of democracy, it is deeply shameful that lawlessness has become the order of the day under his leadership,” said Timothy Osadolor, PDP Deputy National Youth Leader.

The PDP called for Tinubu to apologize and step aside, blaming him for economic decline, high inflation, and a weakened naira. The LP claimed it would have managed the economy better, while the CUPP labeled the last two years as the worst period since Nigeria’s independence, citing rising hunger, joblessness, and insecurity.

The All Progressives Congress (APC), Tinubu’s party, defended his record, saying he is “on the right track” and that reforms will soon yield more visible benefits. APC’s Nze Chidi Duru said, “A lot has been achieved two years down the line and still another two years to go… I can already think that in a way, it will be with confidence and the impact of the reforms will begin to bear fruits.”

Former President Muhammadu Buhari weighed in, urging Nigerians to moderate their expectations and support the ongoing reforms, stressing that change takes time and must not be derailed by politics.

As Tinubu’s administration enters its second half, Nigeria remains sharply divided over whether his reforms are laying the foundation for future prosperity or deepening the nation’s challenges. The debate over Tinubu’s mid-term achievements is set to continue as both supporters and critics look to the next two years for answers.

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