A Clarion Call for Change: Why Nigerians Must Support Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Reforms – Banji Alabi Esq 

A Clarion Call for Change: Why Nigerians Must Support Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Reforms – Banji Alabi Esq 

The only constant thing in life is change, yet people consistently resist it. We can’t keep doing things the same way and expect different results.

I recall when automatic transmission was first introduced; people resisted it until automobile companies offered incentives and discounts.

Today, who wants to drive a stick-shift vehicle? When I joined Chevron in 1990, my Peugeot 505 American spec with automatic transmission was seen as a bad investment, prone to problems. Many colleagues opted for manual cars, but today, who drives manual?

People resist change due to fear of the unknown, lack of vision, or mistrust in leaders. Complacency also plays a role, but trying new things is essential in a constantly evolving world. Some Nigerians see our country as a problem, while others see opportunities. Nigeria is an evolving economy with abundant opportunities waiting to be seized. No sharp Nigerian should complain of hunger or suffering, because opportunities abound everywhere especially for those with the third eye and those capable of seeing beyond their nose.

Let some of those who escaped abroad in search of opportunities honestly recount their experiences; many who have the courage will confess that no place like home and potential opportunities are here for those who are ready to look beyond paper certificates. I’ve seen how people work tirelessly in America, yet they face stress and challenges. They’re not complaining; they’re creating opportunities. We can do the same.

Those opposing Tinubu’s reforms might be educated but not wise. Change is inherent to growth. Great leaders like Lee Kuan Yew, Mao, Deng, and Kagame stood firm despite criticism. Deng Xiaoping, the father of modern China, suffered the same fate. He struggled mightily to convince the Chinese masses to abandon the unproductive, corrupt, and failed economic policies of his boss and leader, Chairman Mao, for years. Luckily for the Chinese, they were wise enough to buy into Deng’s vision, which resulted in one of the fastest economic turnarounds the world has ever witnessed! Deng Xiaoping’s progressive policies raised the economic output and living standards of the Chinese, so much so that 300 million formerly poor, impoverished, and illiterate Chinese went to school, became educated, and were technologically savvy enough to form a formidable, informed, powerful, and influential middle class, the backbone of the current Chinese economic miracle.

Let’s give Tinubu a chance; Nigeria will be better for it. His leadership is rare; let’s appreciate God’s gift. Under President Tinubu, I see a new Nigeria. I see six lanes on each side of well-constructed roads running from Lagos to Owo, to Aba, Owerri, Enugu, Kano, Katsina.

I see trees planted along well-lit roads, flyovers, state-of-the-art hospitals, and schools. I see a professionalised Nigeria police, Army, Navy, and Airforce. I see new local and international airports competing with the best in the world. I see our young men and women abandoning begging and committing to labour, with mass production of goods and services.

I call on Nigerians to rise above pettiness and show compassion. Let us focus on building a nation where empathy and kindness prevail. President Tinubu, in his short time in office, has proven himself to be one of the most dynamic and result-oriented leaders Nigeria has ever had. His commitment to infrastructure development, economic growth, and social welfare programmes has been unmatched.

Some notable achievements of President Tinubu’s administration include: Economic Growth: Consistent GDP growth, attracting foreign investments, and diversifying the economy; Infrastructure Development: Ongoing construction of key roads, bridges, and rail projects; Social Welfare: Expansion of cash transfer programmes, improved healthcare, and education initiatives; Security: Strengthened efforts to combat insecurity and improve national stability; Anti-Corruption Drive: Intensified efforts to curb corruption and promote transparency; Renewed International Partnerships: Strengthened ties with global partners, boosting trade and diplomacy.

I urge Nigerians to focus on these achievements and pray for the President’s swift recovery, rather than politicising the incident. Let’s build a nation where empathy and kindness prevail. I stand in solidarity with President Tinubu and the Nigerian people, calling for unity and collective effort towards nation-building. I believe in the Nigeria of my dreams, where every citizen can thrive and prosper.

Nigerians, let’s rise and support President Tinubu! Nigeria will be great again. Tinubu must succeed; Nigeria must succeed.
*Alabi Esq. is the alternative Chairman, Two Osa NBA branch and National Chairman Ondo State Eminent Persons Group.