Population gap behind slow impact of Tinubu’s reforms — Bwala
Quick Read
“The resources we have, even with increased revenue, are not enough to match the population and the infrastructure deficit. Growth will inevitably be slow, but steady and consistent,” Bwala said.
Nigeria’s large population and significant infrastructure deficit are key reasons why citizens have yet to feel the full effects of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s economic reforms, a presidential aide has said.
Special Adviser on Media and Policy Communication, Daniel Bwala, said in a television programme on Tuesday that while federal revenue has increased, the scale of Nigeria’s population, now over 230 million, and the persistent gaps in infrastructure limit the speed at which reforms translate into tangible benefits for ordinary Nigerians.
“The resources we have, even with increased revenue, are not enough to match the population and the infrastructure deficit. Growth will inevitably be slow, but steady and consistent,” Bwala said.
He pointed to ongoing federal initiatives such as the Student Loan Fund (NELFUND), the CNG transportation scheme, and healthcare subsidies including dialysis and Caesarean section support as examples of policies directly benefitting low-income Nigerians.
“These policies target the poor directly. Over one million students have benefited from NELFUND. The CNG initiative helps everyday commuters. Healthcare subsidies ensure the vulnerable access critical care,” he explained.
Bwala also addressed concerns over poverty reduction, stressing that improvements may take time to reflect in household living standards.
“People often focus on macroeconomic indicators like GDP growth or inflation. But citizens experience these changes at the household level. That’s why it may feel like reforms are not working, even though progress is being made,” he said.
On security, Bwala highlighted joint military operations and rescue missions across the country, citing recent airstrikes that reportedly neutralized over 170 terrorists and rescued dozens of kidnapped victims in Kogi and the Northeast.
“While insecurity continues in some areas, the government is actively addressing it. We want Nigerians to recognize progress alongside ongoing challenges,” he added.
Comments