Tinubu’s reforms will correct age-long institutional distortions, says Alawuje

As Nigeria inches closer to the 2027 general elections, a political stakeholder, President of the Yoruba Welfare Group, Comrade Abdulhakeem Adegoke Alawuje, has expressed confidence that the reform agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will address deep-rooted institutional and economic distortions that have hindered the country’s growth for decades. Alawuje, in a statement on Friday, […]

As Nigeria inches closer to the 2027 general elections, a political stakeholder, President of the Yoruba Welfare Group, Comrade Abdulhakeem Adegoke Alawuje, has expressed confidence that the reform agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will address deep-rooted institutional and economic distortions that have hindered the country’s growth for decades.

Alawuje, in a statement on Friday, urged Nigerians to adopt a long-term perspective when assessing the impact of ongoing economic and governance reforms, noting that the current challenges facing citizens are not isolated to the present administration but are the result of systemic weaknesses accumulated over time.

He cautioned against what he described as a growing tendency to attribute Nigeria’s complex socio-economic problems solely to the Tinubu administration, warning that such narratives risk oversimplifying issues that require structural and sustained interventions.

According to him, the reforms being implemented—particularly in areas of fiscal policy, economic restructuring, and institutional strengthening—are designed to correct long-standing inefficiencies and reduce dependence on unsustainable economic practices.

“Reform, by its nature, is rarely comfortable in the short term,” Alawuje who is the National Coordinator of the Disciples of Jagaban, a pro-Tinubu support group stated.

“However, these measures are necessary steps toward achieving long-term stability and inclusive growth. The distortions we are trying to correct today have been built over decades,” he added.

He stressed that governance in Nigeria has historically been constrained by entrenched interests and institutional resistance, factors he said have limited the effectiveness of successive administrations.

Alawuje referenced the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari, noting that while it was met with high expectations—particularly in the fight against corruption—systemic challenges ultimately influenced outcomes.

“Every administration inherits a complex system. Progress is often gradual because of the layers of resistance within institutions. What is important is the direction of policy and the consistency of implementation,” he said.

The political figure also called on Nigerians to critically evaluate emerging political actors ahead of the 2027 elections, emphasizing the need for scrutiny of their track records, credibility, and commitment to national development.

He questioned the sincerity of individuals who, according to him, may have been associated with past economic mismanagement but now present themselves as agents of reform without clear accountability.

“It is not enough to present opposition. Nigerians must ask critical questions about competence, integrity, and consistency. Leadership requires more than rhetoric; it demands a proven commitment to the public good,” Alawuje added.

He acknowledged that ongoing economic reforms have placed pressure on many households but maintained that such outcomes are often unavoidable in the process of correcting structural imbalances.

“Different segments of society experience reforms in different ways. While the short-term effects may be difficult, they are part of a broader effort to build a more resilient and sustainable economy,” he said.

Alawuje further warned against disrupting ongoing policy initiatives without viable and well-articulated alternatives, noting that abrupt reversals could undermine progress and deepen instability.

“Nigeria is at a critical juncture. Decisions made in the next electoral cycle must be based on informed judgment rather than temporary discomfort or political sentiment,” he said.

He urged Nigerians to remain informed, engaged, and committed to the long-term development of the country, stressing that the responsibility of shaping Nigeria’s future lies collectively with its people.