By Kazeem Akande
The chairmen of Mushin and Alimosho local governments in Lagos State have commended President Bola Tinubu’s economic reforms, saying the measures are repositioning Nigeria for sustainable growth in spite of current hardships.
Mr Haruna Aruwe of Mushin and Mr Johnson Akinpelu of Alimosho made the remarks in separate Independence Day statements on Wednesday.
Aruwe said the reforms under the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda were strengthening Nigeria’s economic foundation and creating opportunities for long-term development.
He said improved federal revenue generation had resulted in higher and more predictable statutory allocations to states and local governments.
According to him, increased allocations have strengthened the capacity of subnational governments to provide critical infrastructure and social services at the grassroots.
Aruwe also lauded the Federal Government’s investments in roads, rail, power, housing, irrigation and digital infrastructure to boost commerce and enhance connectivity.
He said the government’s investment in human capital and education was equally significant, particularly through the establishment and expansion of the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND).
The chairman said NELFUND had widened access to higher education, alongside complementary initiatives aimed at developing the skills of Nigerian youths.
He also acknowledged reforms in the energy sector and efforts to increase domestic refining capacity and attract investment into the oil and gas industry.
According to him, the reforms are expected to strengthen energy security and reduce Nigeria’s dependence on imported petroleum products.
Aruwe said the Federal Government’s initiatives were having an impact on communities, particularly densely populated commercial centres such as Mushin.
He pledged the council’s continued collaboration with the Federal Government and Lagos State Government to promote development at the grassroots.
He, however, acknowledged that challenges including the cost of living, employment creation and infrastructure deficits required coordinated intervention by all tiers of government.
“As the country celebrates its 66th Independence Anniversary, we reaffirm the local government’s commitment to the progressive implementation of the Renewed Hope Agenda.
“We are optimistic that ongoing transformations will continue to yield tangible dividends for residents and build a more inclusive Nigeria,” he said.
On his part, Akinpelu said structural reforms were often difficult but could produce long-term economic and social benefits.
He said the reforms required courage, patience and collective responsibility, particularly as many Nigerians were experiencing difficulties arising from the current economic realities.
“To say the truth, in Nigeria’s history, no President has ever demonstrated the level of courage required to confront some of our longstanding national challenges head-on as the current administration,” he said.
Akinpelu said Tinubu had taken steps aimed at restructuring the Nigerian economy, strengthening institutions, attracting investment and positioning the country for sustainable growth.
“The reality is that the difficult path to rebuilding and repositioning a nation is not always the most popular path.
“Yes, things are hard, and many Nigerians are feeling the impact of the current economic realities.
“But it is also important to acknowledge the reforms and initiatives being undertaken, as well as the potential long-term implications for the country,” he said.
Akinpelu urged Nigerians to carefully assess the administration’s policies, achievements, challenges and long-term vision ahead of the 2027 presidential election.
“Nigeria’s future deserves informed and thoughtful consideration,” he added. (NAN)
Edited by Grace Alegba
Comments