100 Days Of Tinubu, Fubara’s Govts

Tinubu’s initial actions were met with turmoil and embroilment. He audaciously declared the elimination of petrol subsidy upon his investiture, receiving both adulation and condemnations. Although acclaimed by international institutions such as the World Bank, IMF, and the private sector, the aftermaths have been inexorable. The economy is now distressed, with an additional 7.1 million falling into indigence. Besides, record levels of inflation and currency devaluation have precipitated great infliction to businesses nationwide.
The failure to find a highly skilled economist to supplant the contentious and suspended Godwin Emefiele is a reversal. Retaining the disparaged management of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited is concerning, considering the multitudinous aspersions, faux pas, and alleged infringements that have beleaguered the company for decades. This decision demonstrates a lack of accountability and a failure to address the underlying issues.
The lack of rigour surrounding Tinubu’s administration was further solidified when he failed to nominate ministers until two months into his term, five months after winning the election. This deferment in effectuating the constitutional requirement bred disquietude about his ability to govern effectively. Furthermore, the initial list he submitted consisted of only 28 names, showing a dearth of thoroughness and preparedness.
There is a startling and evolving vicious killings and abductions that perseverate throughout the country. According to a report by The News Agency of Nigeria in August, it was revealed that an outrageous number of 23 local government areas in Sokoto, Zamfara, and Kebbi States were under the jurisdiction of bandits. This situation demands exigent attention and compelling measures from the authorities to ensure the safety and security of the citizens.
Tinubu has shown unsatisfactory dedication to privatisation and liberalisation of critical economic sectors. His choice to linger in retaining the stagnant state-owned refineries and the Ajaokuta Steel Company, rather than pursuing outright privatisation, indicates an exacerbation of limitations on investment, productivity, job creation, and exports. The bloated cost of governance he has continued, including nominating a record 48 ministers amid the country’s dwindling revenues, huge debt, and mass poverty, is telling.
Notwithstanding all these, the current Federal administration is emerging with a meritorious three-year economic recovery plan, based on an eight-point agenda. This strategy can incredibly impact Nigeria if implemented with viable policies, targets, and timelines. To succeed, a sound plan of action, scrupulous programme, and potent implementation must succeed the corrupt approach of borrowing money recklessly.
Expectedly, state governors also observed the tradition of marking their first 100 days in office. Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State announced a series of activities to commemorate his first 100 days, including the inauguration and flag-off of 25 projects. These projects are a testament to the administration’s commitment to the consolidation of the achievements of its predecessor.
Upon assumption of office on May 29, 2023, the governor wasted no time in getting to work. He filled key positions with people who possessed the necessary skills and expertise to accomplish their responsibilities effectively. He retained major cabinet members from the previous administration. This decision intended to ensure a seamless transition and maintain the pace achieved thus far.
His single-mindedness in reaching his vision was evident when he presented a bill to the Rivers State House of Assembly for approval of his legacy project, the Port Harcourt Ring Road. The 50.15 km dual carriageway project, costing approximately N200 billion, aspires to unite the state by connecting six local government areas. With six flyovers, one river crossing bridge, and 19 rotary intersections and roundabouts, it seeks to develop new cities and alleviate congestion in Port Harcourt and Obio/Akpor Local Government Areas.
Siminalayi has completed many road projects inherited from the previous administration within his first 100 days. These projects include the Omagwa internal roads in Ikwerre Local Government Area, Emohua and Ogbakiri internal roads in Emohua Local Government Area, the Indorama-Agbonchia-Ogale-Ebubu-East Ebubu-East/West Link Road in Eleme Local Government Area, and the 19.1 kilometre Oyigbo-Okoloma(Afam) Road in Oyigbo Local Government Area.
Others are the Botem-Gbene-nu-Horo Road in the Ogoni axis, the Omoku-Egbema Road dualisation project in Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni Local Government Area, the Ogbo-Ihugbogo Road and the Odiemudie Road in Ahoada-East Local Government Area, the 5.1 kilometres Mgbuodohia Road in Obio/Akpor Local Government Area, Alode-Onne Road, Eneka internal roads, among others. A contract has likewise been awarded for a link road to Okrika.
Moreover, the governor has accomplished remarkable achievements in the field of education. He established smart schools to emend the learning experience in the state and completed the reconstruction of several primary and secondary schools, including the delivery of a state-of-the-art convocation arena for the University of Port Harcourt. Further, he has evinced a steadfast committal to the welfare of citizens by providing free buses to alleviate the harsh impacts of the subsidy removal.
The civil service now gets adequate attention, unlike previously. After eight years of stagnation, promotions and financial benefits for workers have been actualised, including Universal Basic Education teachers. Fubara’s early sojourn to the state secretariat complex flaunts his commitment to the civil service as the government’s driving force. The complex, which undergoes renovation, now has operational elevators and water supply. Workers’ salaries are paid timely while pensions and gratuities are disbursed to pensioners.
On security, Fubara has immensely supported the police in the state, promoting law and order, and enabling citizens’ freedom. His hard stand against crime and police brutality towards Rivers people is second to none. He is determined to eradicate these obnoxious practices.
The governor’s first 100 days have been above par and exhilarating, with high expectations for positive developments in agriculture, economy, democracy, industrialisation, eradication of corruption, job creation, and poverty reduction in the next 100 days and beyond.