Former Minister of Education, Oby Ezekwesili, has criticised the performance of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, pointing to what she described as the government’s only notable achievement since taking office.
Ezekwesili, a former World Bank vice president, expressed concerns over the direction of governance in Nigeria, particularly regarding the impact of government policies on citizens and the broader economy.
According to her assessment, the administration’s record should not be judged solely by policy announcements or government initiatives but by measurable improvements in the living conditions of Nigerians.
She argued that economic reforms must ultimately translate into increased purchasing power, improved access to essential services, greater employment opportunities and a stronger sense of economic security for ordinary citizens.
The former minister also raised questions about the consequences of policies introduced under the Tinubu administration, particularly those affecting the cost of living. The removal of fuel subsidy and other economic reforms have generated significant debate, with Nigerians experiencing increased transportation, food and household expenses.
Ezekwesili maintained that governments have a responsibility to ensure that difficult reforms are accompanied by effective measures capable of protecting vulnerable citizens and creating sustainable economic opportunities.
She also emphasised the importance of accountability, transparency and institutional reforms in strengthening Nigeria’s democracy and economy. In her view, government performance should be measured against clear outcomes rather than political narratives.
Her comments have added to the continuing national debate over whether the reforms introduced by the Tinubu administration are producing sufficient benefits for Nigerians.
Since assuming office in May 2023, President Tinubu has pursued a number of major economic policies aimed at restructuring the Nigerian economy, attracting investment, increasing government revenue and improving the country’s fiscal position. Supporters of the administration argue that such reforms are necessary to address longstanding structural problems, while critics contend that the immediate burden on households and businesses has been excessive.
The disagreement highlights a broader question about how Nigeria should balance economic reforms with social protection. While reforms may be necessary to correct longstanding economic distortions, their success is ultimately dependent on whether they generate sustainable improvements in productivity, employment, income and living standards.
Ezekwesili’s position therefore reflects a wider demand for government to provide concrete evidence of progress and demonstrate how its policies are benefiting Nigerians across different social and economic groups.
The debate over the Tinubu administration’s achievements is expected to continue as the government advances its economic programme and Nigerians assess its performance based on the realities they experience in their daily lives.