Why President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR May Deserve a Second Term: A Critique of His Scorecard in Governance
By Dr. Aiyeku Olufemi Samuel
Leadership is not about convenience but commitment. It is not about applause but accomplishment. As Nigeria journeys through the first term of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, it is imperative to pause, evaluate, and x-ray his performance, the challenges he has faced, and what more is expected of him by a nation of vibrant and expectant citizens.
The Scorecard: Noteworthy Gains
President Tinubu has demonstrated boldness in making hard economic decisions, a hallmark of pragmatic governance. The removal of fuel subsidies, though controversial, was a long overdue step toward fiscal sustainability. The unification of the exchange rate has also enhanced transparency and efficiency in the foreign exchange market.
His commitment to infrastructure development, particularly the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway and resuscitation of the Port Harcourt refinery, illustrates strategic investment in long-term growth. Tinubu’s engagement with the global investment community is a proactive step in repositioning Nigeria as an economic powerhouse.
” The best leaders are those who plant trees under whose shade they do not expect to sit.”
Dr. Aiyeku Olufemi Samuel
His push for local production, digitization of revenue collection, and tax reforms via the Presidential Committee on Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms indicate a gradual reengineering of Nigeria’s economic architecture.
Areas of Underperformance
However, governance is judged not just by intentions but by the impact on the common man. Inflation remains high, food prices are choking households, and insecurity persists in many regions. The administration’s communication strategy has often failed to carry citizens along, creating a disconnect between policy and perception.
Social protection mechanisms for vulnerable groups remain weak, and despite the promise of palliatives, many Nigerians feel abandoned. Public trust in institutions is yet to be restored.
” Governance is not theory. It is the delicate balance of empathy, efficiency, and execution.”
~ Dr. Aiyeku Olufemi Samuel
Citizens’ Expectations Before 2027
• Clear and Inclusive Communication: Citizens want transparency and regular engagement from their leaders.
• Job Creation and Youth Empowerment: With millions unemployed, the administration must prioritize SME development, vocational training, and tech innovation.
• Security Reform: A decentralized policing framework and robust intelligence systems are urgent.
• Healthcare and Education Reform: These are foundational for long-term national development.
• Corruption and Accountability: Strengthen anti-graft institutions and lead by example.
” Strategy without accountability is like a ship without a compass—motion without direction.”
~ Dr. Aiyeku Olufemi Samuel
Challenges Ahead
President Tinubu inherited a fragile economy, a divided nation, and disillusioned citizens. He faces global economic headwinds, regional security crises, and growing socio-political polarization. Yet, true leaders rise in the storm.
Recommendations
Institutionalize reforms that outlive his tenure
Deepen federalism and restructure for efficiency
Engage the private sector more robustly
Simplify tax regimes to attract and retain investors
Prioritize people-cantered policy implementation
” Great governance is built not on the abundance of policies, but the precision of execution.”
~ Dr. Aiyeku Olufemi Samuel
Conclusion: The Case for a Second Term?
If President Bola Ahmed Tinubu can convert policies to palpable change, communicate vision clearly, empower citizens, and bridge trust gaps, he stands a good chance of deserving a second term. Not by mere entitlement, but by evidence of impactful governance.
Ultimately, Nigeria needs consistency, not constant resets. If the path being laid today matures into progress tomorrow, then perhaps, for stability and continuity, a second term might not just be deserved—it might be necessary.
” Nation-building is not an election cycle affair; it is a generational mission that demands visionary consistency.”
~ Dr. Aiyeku Olufemi Samuel
Dr. Aiyeku Olufemi Samuel is the Co-Founder and Lead Consultant, Global Human Capital & Energy Management Limited.
Governance | Leadership | Strategy | Societal transformation |Policy
