Expert Backs Tinubu’s Economic Reforms, Calls For Policy Continuity Till 2031

 Hanny Henry

Aliyu Abdulhameed, a development economist and former Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of NIRSAL, has expressed strong support for the economic reforms introduced by Bola Ahmed Tinubu, stating that Nigeria’s economy is on a path to sustainable growth.

Speaking with journalists, Abdulhameed noted that the administration’s policies are gradually reshaping the country’s economic future.

He made the remark while during a keynote presentation titled “President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Economic Policies and Key Reform Achievements: The Case for His Government’s Continuity till 2031.”

He emphasised the importance of policy continuity, arguing that extending Tinubu’s administration would allow Nigeria to fully realise the long-term benefits of ongoing reforms.

According to Abdulhameed, key policy measures such as the removal of fuel subsidies, exchange rate unification, and increased investments in infrastructure and power are critical to transitioning Nigeria toward sustained and inclusive economic growth.

“While the long-term impact can only be assessed over time, the economic policies and projects are already creating significant impacts across all sectors of the Nigerian economy,” he said.

The economist acknowledged that the removal of fuel subsidies initially posed challenges but noted that it has reportedly saved the country hundreds of billions of naira monthly, while also reducing corruption and fuel smuggling.

He further highlighted major infrastructure projects, including the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway and the Keffi-Akwanga-Lafia-Makurdi road, as evidence of the administration’s commitment to national development.

Abdulhameed also commended the signing of the Electricity Act 2023, noting that it has decentralised the electricity sector and empowered states to generate and distribute power independently, thereby improving supply.

Providing economic indicators, he cited reports from the World Bank showing that Nigeria recorded its fastest economic growth in nearly a decade in 2024, attributing the performance to early gains from the administration’s macroeconomic reforms.

He added that the country’s fiscal deficit declined significantly, while national revenue saw substantial growth within the same period. Trade balance, oil production, and foreign reserves also recorded notable improvements between 2023 and 2025.

On the power sector, Abdulhameed stated that average electricity generation has increased from about 4,000 megawatts before May 2023 to over 6,000 megawatts.

He stressed that the Tinubu administration is defined by measurable outcomes rather than rhetoric, citing progress in economic stability, infrastructure development, social investment, and national security.

Abdulhameed urged Nigerians to support the administration’s “Renewed Hope Agenda,” emphasizing that continuity in leadership would be vital to achieving the full impact of the government’s economic and development policies.