Bola Tinubu, the All Progressives Congress’s presidential candidate, has claimed that Nigeria’s complexity makes it difficult to replicate his transformative vision outside of Lagos.
In order to ensure that the administration runs smoothly, the former governor of Lagos State also declared that he would permit power devolution.
In an opinion piece that he published in The Economist on Wednesday, Tinubu made this point clear.
“We can’t just copy Lagos’ turnaround everywhere.
Nigeria is complex and variegated. Recognising the strengths of each section of the country and providing the foundations on which they can all thrive is the path to economic growth. I know what can be achieved when the Federal Government allows adequate space for regional differences, so I want to devolve more powers to the states. They should have greater authority to provide services and infrastructure projects, as well as more control over law enforcement,” Tinubu stated, while recounting his achievements as a two-term governor of Lagos.
Gov Udom Urges LG Chairmen To Transform Rural Areas
Speaking further, Tinubu said the country’s over-dependence on oil had distorted its development.
“Over-reliance on oil has distorted Nigeria’s development. A country of over 200 million people cannot hinge its development on a single commodity. We must focus on industrialisation and technological innovation, especially since Nigeria is already the top African destination for startup funding,” he said.
The APC candidate also reiterated his stance for the removal of fuel subsidy, which, according to him, is “harmful.”
He further stated, “We will end the harmful fuel subsidy, estimated to have cost $7.5bn in the first half of 2023. The funds will be more productively used in joint investments with the private sector to create jobs in infrastructure, health care, education, and agriculture.
2023: After Wike Declared For President, See What Sowore Called Him
“Nigeria has one of the world’s lowest tax to GDP ratios. We need not increase rates, but improve compliance by overhauling the system and deploying information technology to boost efficiency. Tied with effective delivery of public services and infrastructure, a virtuous cycle of buy-in from businesses and citizens will strengthen the social contract and place federal revenues on a more sustainable footing.”
Follow us on Facebook
Post Disclaimer
The opinions, beliefs and viewpoints expressed by the author and forum participants on this website do not necessarily reflect the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints of Anaedo Online or official policies of the Anaedo Online.