Evaluating President Tinubu's First Eight Months: Lack of Preparedness and Vision, Says Boston University Professor

Introduction

In a recent interview on Channels Television, Professor Nimi Wariboko, a distinguished academic in Social Ethics at Boston University, expressed skepticism about President Bola Tinubu's performance in the first eight months of his administration. According to Wariboko, there is a glaring absence of tangible results, and he contends that President Tinubu did not come prepared with a comprehensive plan to address the nation's challenges. This article delves into Wariboko's critique, emphasizing the need for vision and strategic planning in steering Nigeria's socio-economic ship.

President Tinubu's Unimpressive Start

Professor Wariboko did not mince words when he asserted that President Tinubu's eight-month tenure has yet to yield any significant results. According to him, the absence of a well-defined plan is particularly troubling. The professor highlighted the economic repercussions of the petrol subsidy removal and criticized the administration's policies as mere "knee-jerk reactions," lacking a broader vision for the nation's future.

The Urgency of Vision and Preparation

Wariboko emphasized that, after eight months, it is untenable for a leader not to have a concrete plan in place. He underscored the importance of strategic foresight, especially in a nation grappling with challenges such as rising inflation, forex crisis, and economic hardship. The removal of the petrol subsidy has exacerbated these issues, leading to protests in various parts of the country.

Tinubu's Campaign Promises vs. Current Realities

As an investment banker, Wariboko pointed out the gap between President Tinubu's campaign promises and the current state of affairs. While acknowledging Tinubu's political experience, Wariboko insisted that the ultimate test lies in the tangible results achieved during his tenure. The professor invoked a biblical proverb, stating that if one's strength fails on the day of adversity, it was never present. In this context, Wariboko suggested that there is a conspicuous absence of both results and a clear vision for the country's trajectory.

Economic Downturn and Currency Depreciation

The economic challenges facing Nigeria have been a cause for concern. The Nigerian naira has experienced a significant decline over the past nine months, dropping from about N700/$1 to over N1500/$1 under the Tinubu administration's watch. The cost of living has surged as well, with the price of petrol skyrocketing by more than 350%, reaching over N600 per litre. This economic downturn has sparked protests and widespread discontent among citizens.

Calls for Fulfillment of Campaign Promises

Economists, opposition parties, labor unions, and civil society organizations have consistently called on the Tinubu administration to fulfill its campaign promises and address the pressing issues facing the nation. Despite some measures introduced by the government in recent weeks, the high cost of living continues to burden Nigerians.

 A Critical Period Ahead

As President Tinubu navigates the challenges of the next few months, the scrutiny from academics like Professor Wariboko underscores the importance of delivering tangible results and outlining a clear vision for Nigeria's future. The nation awaits decisive actions and strategic policies that can address the economic hardships and uncertainties it currently faces. Only time will reveal whether the Tinubu administration can pivot from its perceived lack of preparedness to a trajectory of positive transformation.