In a world often painted in shades of black and white, it’s the shades of gray that hold the complexity of truth. Amid the battle of optimism and pessimism, the crux of the issue lies in embracing reality as it stands – unfiltered and unadulterated.
This year kicked off with a surge of hope, wrapped in the anticipation of a consequential election that promised to be epoch-making. The choice rested between the continuation of the stability sculpted by former President Muhammadu Buhari and the pursuit of fresh possibilities championed by several candidates on the electoral stage. With the echoes of the general elections now a distant memory, we find ourselves in the era of President Bola Ahmad Tinubu, fondly addressed as PBAT. This new chapter has kindled renewed optimism, the seeds of which are beginning to sprout as the administration takes form.
Right from the inauguration grounds, the administration’s direction was cast in stone. The decisive termination of the stubborn fuel subsidy, a longstanding social pact with the masses, rang out like a clarion call. This move, albeit expected, sent shockwaves through the nation as its repercussions ran deeper than initial assessments had fathomed. Skepticism gave way to the grim reality of inescapable change, a transformation that the populace must come to terms with. As the nation strives to recalibrate in the face of this transformation, another decree came to light – the unification of dollar rates, effectively allowing the naira to ebb and flow. The initial announcement spurred a momentary market rally. Presently, the policy is under careful refinement, aimed at ensuring the naira finds its authentic value while taming threats of subversion. We hold our collective breaths, yearning for the moment when this endeavor yields the desired results, potentially opening the floodgates to both local and foreign investments.
Amid the prevailing air of despondency, a realm of calculated optimism emerges. The administration boasts a cohesive blueprint, a compass steering different sectors of the nation towards stability, with a special emphasis on economic reinvigoration.
Enter the role of governors and the litmus test of palliatives. The federal government, in a calculated move, has entrusted the task of providing relief to the vulnerable, counterbalancing the sting of subsidy removal, to the state governors. Closer in proximity to the masses, governors ostensibly stand better equipped to devise methodologies for succor. Yet, it remains undeniable that a majority still incline to trust the federal government for its handling of such matters, often perceived as less tainted by sentiment and partisanship compared to their state counterparts. Past precedents have done little to advocate for the governors’ capacity in this arena. However, a closer look reveals that some of the emerging governors hold potential to rise above expectations. While awaiting validation from the states’ residents and independent observers. Governor Zulum stands as a reliable example, faithfully delivering on promises. Kudos, Babagana! With anticipation, we turn our gaze to Governors AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq (Kwara), Uba Sani (Kaduna), Kabir Yusuf (Kano), Dikko Radda (Katsina), Babatunde Sanwoolu (Lagos), Ademola Adeleke (Osun), and Chukwuma C. Soludo (Anambra) Signs point to a belief that they will rise to the occasion, fortifying public trust.
The age-old adage and my watch word, “Posterity Shall Vindicate the Just,” rings true as we navigate the currents of optimism and reality. The future holds the verdict.
‘Posterity Shall Vindicate the Just’
Mr Habib is a Tech, strategy and innovations Consultant.
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