The Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Media and Policy Communication, Daniel Bwala, has acknowledged that Nigerians are facing economic hardship due to the policies implemented by the current administration.
However, he emphasized that these difficulties are temporary and necessary for long-term national progress.
Speaking on Tuesday about the administration’s policy direction, Bwala likened the government’s economic reforms to demolishing a house in order to rebuild it on a stronger foundation. He urged Nigerians to look beyond the immediate hardships and focus on the benefits these policies will bring in the long run.
According to Bwala, while certain government reforms are already yielding positive results, others will take longer to materialize. He reassured citizens that the administration is committed to prioritizing their welfare and ensuring that the sacrifices made today will lead to a more prosperous future.
Appealing for patience and understanding, Bwala noted that the government is actively working to mitigate the negative effects of these reforms. He cited President Tinubu’s interventions in state finances as a key achievement, claiming that 26 states were on the brink of bankruptcy when Tinubu assumed office in May 2023. However, through strategic fiscal policies and increased revenue streams, these states are now in a stronger financial position, enabling them to pay salaries and fund essential services.
Highlighting various government initiatives, Bwala pointed to interventions in critical sectors such as healthcare and agriculture. He explained that while some investments yield immediate benefits, others—such as agricultural programs—require time before their full impact is realized.
“When you introduce policy reforms, it’s like tearing down a structure to rebuild it properly,” Bwala said during an interview with Arise TV. “When the president took office, around 26 states were financially insolvent and unable to pay salaries. That is no longer the case, thanks to increased revenue. States can now meet their salary obligations, and we are encouraging them to go beyond that by fulfilling their development mandates.”
Bwala further elaborated on the government’s strategic interventions, stating that funding has been channeled into key areas to drive long-term economic recovery. “We have provided substantial support to states and have directly intervened in sectors such as healthcare and agriculture,” he said. “Investments in these areas take time to mature—just like when you plant a seed, it doesn’t sprout overnight.”
“We Understand the Pain, But Sacrifices Are Necessary”
When reminded by the interviewer that many Nigerians are struggling under the current economic conditions, Bwala acknowledged their hardship. He insisted, however, that these struggles are part of the necessary sacrifices required to secure a better future for the nation.
“That is why we continue to appeal to Nigerians for patience,” he stated. “Leadership is about accountability and being responsible to the people. We will never dismiss their suffering or pretend it doesn’t exist. We recognize their pain, but what we are doing now is essential for long-term stability and growth.”
Bwala assured Nigerians that the Tinubu administration remains focused on implementing policies that will ultimately lead to economic prosperity. He reiterated that while the current situation may be challenging, the government’s efforts are aimed at creating sustainable solutions that will benefit citizens in the years to come.
