A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Ayodele Arise, has come out strongly in defence of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, insisting that the controversial economic reforms under the current administration are already delivering tangible benefits to Nigerians.
Speaking with journalists at the weekend, Arise dismissed sustained criticism from opposition figures, arguing that available data and developments across key sectors clearly show progress compared to previous administrations.
“The Decisions Have Benefited Many Nigerians”
According to the former lawmaker, who represented Ekiti North Senatorial District between 2007 and 2011, President Tinubu’s policies have triggered positive movement in the economy.
“From my position, I can say that the decisions of Mr. President have benefited many Nigerians. We can see positive movement in economic growth, supported by statistics available to the public,” Arise said.
He pointed to easing inflationary pressure and increased funding for critical national institutions as evidence that the reforms are beginning to yield results.
Student Loans, University Stability and Reduced Strikes
Arise highlighted the role of the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND), noting that the student loan scheme has opened access to tertiary education for thousands of young Nigerians who would otherwise be shut out due to financial constraints.
He also credited the Tinubu administration’s engagement with academic and non-academic unions — including Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) and Non-Academic Staff Union of Educational and Associated Institutions (NASU) — for the improved stability in Nigerian universities.
“Before now, students spent six or seven years on a four-year course, which contributed to brain drain. Today, there is greater certainty that students can complete their studies on time,” he said.
Local Government Autonomy and Grassroots Development
On governance at the grassroots, Arise defended President Tinubu’s push for financial autonomy for local governments, describing it as a long-overdue reform.
He argued that allowing councils direct access to their funds would speed up development in rural communities, particularly in areas such as roads, healthcare, and primary education.
“For the first time, local governments can meaningfully impact the lives of people at the grassroots. They are now better positioned to be accountable to their communities,” he stated.
Fuel Subsidy Removal: “Only a Courageous Leader Could Do This”
Arise also backed the removal of fuel subsidy, calling it a painful but necessary decision that finally ended years of abuse and revenue leakages.
“Only a courageous leader could take that step and stand by it,” he said, alleging that the old subsidy regime mainly benefited a small group of individuals through fraudulent practices.
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