Tinubu reforms rooted in empathy, public input — VP Shettima

By Kunle Sanni –

Vice President Kashim Shettima has reaffirmed that President Bola Tinubu administration is anchored on empathy and public engagement, ensuring that reforms are shaped by the voices of Nigerians and not crafted in isolation.

Speaking at a two-day Citizens Engagement Forum organised by the Sir Ahmadu Bello Memorial Foundation in Kaduna, Shettima said the Tinubu administration prioritises people-centered governance by embracing dialogue, adaptability, and inclusiveness in policy formulation.

The Vice President, represented by Dr. Aliyu Umar Moddibo, Special Adviser on General Duties (Office of the Vice President), stated that the administration is “walking hand in hand” with citizens through key reforms like fuel subsidy removal, student loans, and tax restructuring.

“It is always a privilege to gather under the luminous legacy of Sir Ahmadu Bello,” Shettima said in a speech delivered on his behalf. “What we nurture today is not just a government of the people but a government with the people.”

He explained that major policies are no longer being designed in solitude by technocrats but are being refined through widespread public consultations. This, he noted, has led to significant changes in policy direction.

Citing the Access to Higher Education Act, Shettima said public feedback led to the law’s amendment, removing income thresholds and guarantor conditions to ensure no student is excluded based on financial background.

“No student should be disqualified for being born on the wrong side of poverty,” he stressed.

Shettima also mentioned that in response to concerns raised by citizens and governors, the administration ensured that all proposed tax reforms underwent public hearings, further demonstrating its commitment to inclusive governance.