Is President Tinubu truly Nigeria’s worst leader regarding security and the economy? Reno Omokri passionately disagrees with El-Rufai’s assessment, pointing to tangible improvements. From neutralized bandit leaders to booming infrastructure projects, Omokri presents a compelling counter-narrative.
Key Takeaways:
- Security Boost: Numerous bandit leaders neutralized under Tinubu, a stark contrast to the previous administration.
- Economic Growth: Rising investor confidence, growing external reserves, and a balance of payments surplus.
- Infrastructure Boom: 74 road constructions across 24 states, including massive projects like the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway.
- Debt Management: Clearing of legacy debts and a reduction in total debt stock.
Omokri’s Fiery Defense of Tinubu’s Record
Reno Omokri, never one to shy away from controversy, has stepped into the ring to defend President Bola Tinubu against criticism from former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir el-Rufai. El-Rufai claimed Tinubu is the ‘worst’ president in terms of security, but Omokri isn’t having it. He argues that Nigeria is actually seeing positive changes under Tinubu’s leadership.
Security: A Turning Tide?
Omokri argues that the security situation is improving, pointing to key differences between Tinubu’s administration and that of his predecessor, Muhammadu Buhari. He highlights the neutralization of several notorious bandit leaders:
- Kachalla Ali Kawaje
- Kachalla Halilu Sububu
- Kachalla Damina
- …and many more.
He contrasts this with a series of high-profile security failures under Buhari, including the Kuje Prison break and attacks on the Nigerian Defence Academy.
Remember These Dark Days?
Omokri reminds Nigerians of the harrowing events that occurred under the previous administration:
- Mass School Abductions: Over 600 schoolchildren abducted, including the infamous Dapchi and Kankara incidents.
- Terrorist Attacks: The bombing of the Abuja-Kaduna train, leaving many dead and kidnapped.
- Kidnappings of High-Profile Figures: Including Buhari’s in-law and a former Minister of Foreign Affairs.
“Nothing as serious as these has occurred under President Bola Tinubu,” Omokri asserts.
Economic Indicators: Signs of Recovery?
It’s not just about security, Omokri insists. He also highlights positive economic indicators:
- Debt Reduction: Nigeria’s total debt stock is down from $108.2 billion to $94.2 billion.
- FX Backlog Cleared: Tinubu’s administration has cleared the verified FX backlog.
- Rising External Reserves: Gross external reserves have grown significantly.
- Balance of Payments Surplus: A $6.83 billion surplus in 2024, a major turnaround from previous deficits.
Infrastructure: Building a Better Nigeria
Omokri emphasizes the massive infrastructure projects underway across the country:
- 74 Road Constructions: Spanning 24 states.
- Major Highways: Including the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway and the Sokoto-Badagry Expressway.
- Key Projects Ongoing: Such as the Abuja-Kaduna-Zaria-Kano Road and the East-West Road.
The Presidential Aide’s Perspective
Adding to Omokri’s points, Mr. O’tega Ogra, Senior Special Assistant on Digital/New Media to the President, highlighted further achievements of the Tinubu administration. He emphasized that foreign investors are showing renewed confidence in the Nigerian economy.
Are Things Really Getting Better?
Omokri concludes by challenging Nigerians to consider the facts. “Who will you believe, the facts or Nasir el-Rufai?” he asks, leaving readers to draw their own conclusions.
