Tinubu mid-term review shows economic growth, improved security, tax reforms, and healthcare gains. Critics say it’s not enough.
Nigeria at a Crossroads: Tinubu’s Mid-Term Appraisal Sparks Praise and Protest
On May 29, 2025, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu stood before the nation to mark two years in office.
His speech, brimming with confidence and conviction, painted a picture of an administration making strides on several fronts economy, security, infrastructure, and governance.
But while Tinubu celebrated what he called “undeniable progress,” the opposition saw a different reality one of missed opportunities and worsening conditions for the average Nigerian.
This is not just another political milestone; it’s a moment of reflection for a nation navigating deep economic reforms, persistent insecurity, and social upheaval.
As Nigerians debate the Tinubu administration’s mid-term performance, what’s clear is that the country stands at a critical juncture.
The Economic Scorecard: Growth Amid Sacrifice
At the heart of President Tinubu’s mid-term review was the claim of economic transformation.
According to him, Nigeria’s external reserves surged nearly 500%, from $4 billion in 2023 to over $23 billion by the end of 2024.
Inflation is said to be easing, staple food prices like rice are gradually falling, and foreign investment in oil and gas has surpassed $8 billion.
“We had to take bold steps,” Tinubu said. “Ending the fuel subsidy and reforming our foreign exchange system were painful but necessary.”
The president also boasted of achieving over N6 trillion in revenue in Q1 2025 and reducing the fiscal deficit from 5.4% to 3.0% of GDP.
Tax reforms led to a jump in Nigeria’s tax-to-GDP ratio from 10% to 13.5% within a year, which he credited to a more efficient, fair, and transparent system.
Still, these victories haven’t translated into relief for many Nigerians struggling with skyrocketing food prices and poor wages.
For them, the promise of long-term benefits feels distant and abstract.
Fuel Subsidy Removal: A Price Paid by the People
Few policy decisions have impacted daily life like the removal of fuel subsidies.
In Tinubu’s words, it was a necessary “escape from the chokehold of the past.”
The president argued that subsidies were draining national resources and fueling corruption.
But the abrupt execution raised concerns. The cost of transportation, food, and services soared.
Critics say it disproportionately hurt low-income earners, especially with no immediate safety net in place.
Opposition voices were loud. Labour Party spokesperson Obiora Ifoh said, “Petrol was N87, now it’s over N1,000.
The naira fell from N167 to N1,600. How is that progress?”
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Security: From Chaos to Coordination?
Tinubu dedicated a large part of his address to national security. He acknowledged the pain caused by insurgency and banditry but insisted that things are improving.
“In parts of the North-West, peace has returned,” he said. “Farmers are back on their lands, and highways are becoming safer.”
The administration cites enhanced coordination among security agencies, intelligence-driven operations, and improved welfare for military personnel as factors driving the turnaround.
According to Tinubu, armed forces have successfully disrupted criminal networks and rescued countless abductees.
Yet, many Nigerians still live in fear. The security situation remains fragile, with sporadic attacks and high-profile kidnappings still making headlines.
The opposition isn’t convinced. “Insecurity is worse today than two years ago,” CUPP’s spokesperson Mark Adebayo said.
Health and Human Capital: Building from the Ground Up
One of Tinubu’s less controversial accomplishments lies in healthcare.
Under the Renewed Hope Health Agenda, over 1,000 primary health centers are being revitalized, with 5,500 more undergoing upgrades.
Free dialysis and subsidized treatments are being rolled out in major hospitals.
“Health insurance coverage has expanded from 16 million to 20 million people,” Tinubu proudly stated.
On education, the government’s student loan scheme and increased investment in infrastructure are designed to improve access to quality education.
Youth empowerment, another key area, has received a boost through MSME support, digital job incentives, and innovations at NASENI.
Still, critics say progress has been uneven and poorly communicated to the public.
Infrastructure Drive: Roads, Power, and Innovation
President Tinubu pointed to massive infrastructure projects under his administration.
From the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway to the Second Niger Bridge Access Road, major roads across all six geopolitical zones are under construction or rehabilitation.
In the energy sector, investments in solar energy and grid upgrades aim to solve Nigeria’s persistent power woes.
These efforts are geared toward powering homes, businesses, and hospitals with reliable electricity.
“We’re not just fixing roads; we’re connecting economies,” Tinubu said.
Agriculture and Food Security: Mechanization and Reform
As food inflation continues to bite, Tinubu emphasized his administration’s focus on agriculture.
Thousands of tractors, fertilizers, and farm tools have been procured to support local farmers.
Initiatives aimed at mechanized farming and food price stabilization are underway, but Nigerians are yet to see a significant drop in market prices.
The link between policy and pocketbook remains tenuous.
Opposition Strikes Back: PDP, LP, CUPP Reject Tinubu’s Claims
For the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Tinubu’s speech was far from inspiring.
The party called for an apology, citing failures in addressing Nigeria’s core problems poverty, insecurity, and corruption.
Deputy Youth Leader Timothy Osadolor said, “This administration has moved from ridiculous to unimaginable. The president should step down.”
The Labour Party echoed similar sentiments. “We warned Nigerians before the 2023 elections,” said Obiora Ifoh. “We would have done better.”
The Coalition of United Political Parties (CUPP) went even further, calling Tinubu’s two years “the worst in Nigerian history since 1960.”
The Road Ahead: Reforms or Reckoning?
Tinubu remains optimistic. His government is crafting a new fiscal policy framework to guide taxation, borrowing, and spending.
Plans to introduce a Tax Ombudsman show an intent to promote transparency and protect small businesses.
The president also highlighted diaspora engagement, digital governance, and preparations for the upcoming Motherland Festival a celebration of Nigerian culture, creativity, and tourism.
But as the next election cycle looms, the public will ultimately decide whether these reforms are genuine steps forward or elaborate distractions.
Final Thoughts: A Nation Divided, Yet Decisive
The Tinubu mid-term review paints two contrasting pictures one of a reform-driven administration claiming success, and another of a disillusioned populace grappling with everyday realities. Both may be true.
For now, Nigeria remains divided on the president’s performance.
What unites the people is a shared yearning for results that matter affordable food, safe streets, stable income, and real opportunity.
If President Tinubu can bridge the gap between policy and people in the next two years, history may judge his tenure more kindly. If not, the calls for change will only grow louder.
What are your thoughts on Tinubu’s mid-term performance?
Are the reforms working for you and your community?
Share your perspective in the comments below or tag us on social media with your views. Let your voice be heard.
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