Dogara defends Tinubu, says economic reforms will yield results
Former Speaker of the House of Representatives, Yakubu Dogara, has expressed optimism about Nigeria’s current trajectory, insisting the country is moving in the right direction even if many citizens have yet to feel the impact of government policies.
Speaking on Channels TV’s Sunday Politics, Dogara defended President Bola Tinubu’s leadership and emphasised the importance of continuity in governance. He noted that the administration has embarked on far-reaching economic and systemic reforms aimed at stabilising the nation.
“When we talk about the challenges relating to security, it has taken many years to reach the point President Tinubu inherited. There is no magical wand to solve everything overnight. But from the time he assumed office, we have seen leadership in areas previously neglected,” Dogara said.
He highlighted improvements in security, particularly in northern regions that were once considered unsafe for travel. “In those days, travelling to Kaduna or southern Borno, Adamawa, or other northern regions for holidays was unthinkable. Today, we are beginning to see improvements,” he added.
Dogara also acknowledged the country’s ongoing economic challenges, noting that reforms such as the removal of fuel subsidies, the floating of the Naira, and tax adjustments have led to higher living costs. Petrol prices have risen from ₦187 to nearly ₦900 per litre, while food and transport costs have surged, exacerbating inflation and poverty.
“Some people are feeling the pinch, but these reforms are necessary. Things that have suffered years of decay cannot be fully reversed within two years. We are beginning to see light at the end of the tunnel if these reforms are allowed to endure,” he said.
The former speaker further praised measures to curb corruption and financial leakages, noting that the results are beginning to show. He argued that while the gains of the Tinubu administration are not yet universally felt, the long-term outlook remains positive.
