President Bola Tinubu’s decision to remove fuel subsidies has drawn both praise and criticism across Nigeria.
But according to his Special Adviser on Public Communication and Orientation, Sunday Dare, the move deserves commendation.
Dare insists that the subsidy removal, though painful, is a bold step needed to address Nigeria’s longstanding economic troubles.
Speaking on Channels Television’s Politics Today on Thursday, Dare passionately defended the president’s policies, which include subsidy removal and currency reforms.
He acknowledged the immediate hardships Nigerians are facing but urged citizens to give Tinubu credit for tackling problems that past leaders avoided.
Dare pointed out that past presidents promised to remove the subsidy but never did.
“Every president said they would stop subsidy,” he stated.
He argued that the subsidy was not only unsustainable but had also become a source of corruption, benefitting a few at the expense of millions.
“A few hundred were making billions out of it,” Dare explained, adding that Tinubu’s decision has disrupted this exploitative system.
Dare believes that although the decision is controversial, it is necessary to improve Nigeria’s financial stability.
“Let’s give this man some credit,” he urged, expressing confidence in Tinubu’s commitment to economic reforms.
The subsidy removal has led to a dramatic increase in fuel prices, affecting daily life across Nigeria.
Before the policy, petrol sold at around ₦200 per litre.
Now, it costs over ₦1,000 per litre, making fuel unaffordable for many Nigerians.
The ripple effect has seen prices of goods and services soar, pushing many families into deeper financial distress.
Dare acknowledged the challenges posed by these reforms but argued that they are part of a larger vision to strengthen Nigeria’s economy.
He appealed to Nigerians to be patient, saying that the president understands the weight of these challenges.
Dare emphasized that President Tinubu is committed to fixing Nigeria’s problems, working long hours to tackle the country’s complex issues.
“This is a man I worked with for seven years,” Dare said, describing Tinubu’s relentless work ethic.
He recalled instances of working late into the morning, saying Tinubu often works when “other men of easy virtue are carousing around.”
Dare argued that Tinubu’s dedication to Nigeria’s development should not go unnoticed.
“He burns the midnight oil,” Dare said, urging Nigerians to trust the president’s commitment to making a difference.
According to Dare, Tinubu’s administration has taken “the road less travelled” by implementing bold policies that other leaders avoided.
He described Tinubu’s subsidy removal and currency floatation as “audacious moves” that are essential to economic recovery.
These policies have placed Tinubu in the spotlight, with some critics questioning his methods.
However, Dare contends that these tough decisions are necessary to lay the groundwork for a stronger economy.
The impact of the reforms has triggered protests across Nigeria, with citizens demanding relief from the harsh economic conditions.
In August and October, groups gathered in cities to call for government action on the rising cost of living.
Protesters expressed frustration, asking the president to reconsider the subsidy removal and other economic policies.
The demonstrations reflect the growing struggle of many Nigerians, who are finding it difficult to make ends meet.
While Tinubu acknowledged the public’s concerns, he has shown no signs of reversing the reforms.
