The removal of fuel subsidy under the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, administration remains the boldest and most debated reform in Nigeria today.
According to Eminent Adeboye, Convener of Tinubu Media Vanguard, opinions are split across markets, social media and the streets.
Many Nigerians point to long-term gains in revenue and transparency. Others are feeling immediate hardship and are calling for a reversal.
The questions at the centre
Adeboye said the country must decide based on facts, not noise. He listed three key questions:
- Should Nigeria return to an era where 27 states could not pay salaries or pensions, let alone fund projects?
- Should we go back to federal bailouts just to pay a ₦70,000 minimum wage?
- Should subsidy funds keep going to a few, or be shared to states and LGAs for schools, hospitals, and roads?
Described by supporters as audacious, the subsidy removal ended decades of huge federal spending that often benefited a few. Critics, however, say the timing and palliatives have not matched the pain on households and transport costs.
The debate took a new turn last week when opposition leader and 2027 presidential hopeful, Atiku Abubakar, who once supported subsidy removal, said he would bring back the regime if elected. His U-turn reflects how quickly the conversation has shifted.
The Tinubu Media Vanguard said it will, over the next few days, break down the numbers behind the policy.
