Bola Tinubu surfaced as the Chairman of the Economic Community of West African States(ECOWAS) on the 9th of July, 2023. He took over the seat of power from the President of Guinea Bissau, Umaro Sissoco.
In a statement made by the Chairman, he promised to bear the responsibility of the office and called for collective action of member states, and assured the countries that his leadership will bring harmony and actualize the dreams of ECOWAS. He also made mention of the issues affecting the region such as terrorism and insecurity and urged the countries of the region to work collectively to have an effective regional counterterrorism measure.
As the President of Nigeria, he spoke confidently on making sure the Nigerian masses are going to be carried along in the whole reform process of the entire country. He stated that one of the ways he is going to achieve this is by letting the citizens in on the policies he laid down and is going to execute.
In a statement made by the President, he outlined the key sectors of the country that the following policies will be properly implemented. They are Security, Agriculture, Economy, Infrastructure, and Job Creation.
For the Security sector, the President said he is set to put the safety of the citizens at the top of the list in his administration and promised to invest more in security officials and not just increasing their numbers. He also talked about an increase in pay, firearms, and necessary equipment that will help the officers carry out their duties effectively.
On the 21st of June, 2023, Olukayode Egbetokun was appointed as the Acting Inspector General of Police, and on the 26th of June, 2023, the President appointed Nuhu Ribadu as the new National Security Adviser.
Following these new appointments are also the Service Chiefs which are as follows:
Major General Christopher Musa as the new Chief of Defense Staff.
Major General Taoreed Lagbaja as the new Chief of Army Staff.
Rear Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla as the new Chief of Naval Staff.
Air Vice Marshall Hassan Abubakar as the Chief of Air Staff.
Major General Emmanuel Undiandeye as the Chief of Defense Intelligence.
On Agriculture, the President promised that there will be an increase in agricultural centers to increase production and reduce spoilage and waste. He also mentioned the livestock sector will be introduced to modern practices. He assured Nigerians that if all these are properly put in place, food shall be made plentiful and less cost. He also included the farmers and promised them huge earnings in their agricultural endeavors.
On Economy, the President stated that the main focus is to get a higher GDP growth and drastically reduce unemployment. To achieve this, he mentioned a few points like making electricity more accessible and affordable and encourage states to develop local sources as well, utilizing fiscal measures to promote domestic manufacturing and lessen import deficiency, amongst others.
On Infrastructure, the President mentioned to continue crucial work by making sure there is progress towards networks of road, rail and ports.
Lastly on Job Creation, the President expressed his love for the youths and promised that his administration will open opportunities for them. He said he is set to fulfill his promise of one million jobs in the digital economy. He also mentioned collaborating with the National Assembly to fashion an Omnibus Jobs and Prosperity bill that will provide improved social services for the poor, elderly and anyone in need.
In recent times, we have witnessed the signing of the Student Loan Act,, the Electricity Act, Judicial Officers Law, and the Data Protection Law.
With all these being implemented, we can only hope that this is the start of the Better Nigeria that is being hoped for by all.
Sam-Sedi Agbodesi Favour,
PR Times Africa TV
