by Daniel Edu
During the initial 100 days of his presidency, President Tinubu has made significant appointments and policy decisions to fulfill his Renewed Hope pledges to the Nigerian people. Here are the major highlights of his administration since taking office:
1. **Inauguration Speech Controversy:** President Tinubu’s inauguration speech, delivered shortly after his swearing-in on May 29, 2023, stirred controversy. His declaration that ‘fuel subsidy is gone’ led to an immediate spike in fuel prices from ₦185 to over ₦500 nationwide. The President later admitted deviating from his prepared script when making this announcement.
2. **National Address on Fuel Subsidy Removal:** In response to the economic challenges triggered by the removal of fuel subsidies, President Tinubu addressed the nation on July 31, 2023. He explained the rationale behind abolishing the fuel subsidy and the multiple exchange rate system. He emphasized redirecting the funds saved from subsidies towards public transportation, healthcare, education, housing, and national security.
3. **Ministerial Appointments Delay:** Contrary to expectations, President Tinubu kept Nigerians waiting for over 50 days before announcing his list of ministerial nominees. The Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, finally unveiled the list of 28 nominees on July 31, 2023, and after thorough screening, 45 out of 48 nominees were sworn in as ministers.
4. **Inauguration of Ministers:** On August 21, 2023, President Tinubu officially inaugurated his newly appointed ministers. During this ceremony, he charged them with serving the country diligently and with integrity, emphasizing the need to restore public trust in government.
5. **ECOWAS Chairmanship and Niger Crisis:** In July, President Tinubu assumed the chairmanship of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). Shortly after, democracy crumbled in Niger as military officers took control. President Tinubu led efforts, alongside other West African leaders, to restore democracy in Niger, underscoring his role on the regional stage.
6. **Suspension of Emefiele and Bawa:** Within the first two weeks of his presidency, President Tinubu suspended the Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, Godwin Emefiele, and the Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Abdulrasheed Bawa. These suspensions were based on allegations of misconduct and the need for reforms in the financial sector.
7. **Appointment of New Service Chiefs:** On June 19, 2023, President Tinubu appointed new Service Chiefs and replaced the National Security Adviser (NSA). This move also included the immediate retirement of the former Service Chiefs and the Inspector-General of Police. Nuhu Ribadu was appointed as the new NSA, signaling a significant shift in the nation’s security leadership.
These highlights provide an overview of President Tinubu’s early actions and decisions as he embarks on his tenure, shaping the direction of his administration and Nigeria’s future.
