Former Deputy Governor of Sokoto State, Alhaji Muntari Shagari, has said President Bola Tinubu’s policies are reinvigorating purposeful governance and renewing hope among Nigerians.
Shagari, a former Minister of Water Resources and current Board Chairman of the National Inland Waterways Authority, made the remarks during an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria on Wednesday in Sokoto.
He stated that the Tinubu administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda was gradually transforming Nigeria’s economy and rebuilding citizens’ confidence in government.
According to him, the president’s economic decisions are bold, timely and far-reaching, aimed at addressing long-standing structural problems inherited by the administration.
Shagari noted that Tinubu assumed office at a period marked by economic hardship, widespread pessimism and skyrocketing prices of food and essential commodities, which placed severe pressure on many Nigerians.
He said that over the past two years, deliberate reforms introduced by the administration had started yielding results, with a gradual reduction in the cost of food items and other essential goods, thereby easing the burden on citizens.
While acknowledging the initial hardships that accompanied the reforms, Shagari maintained that the measures were unavoidable if the economy was to be stabilized and positioned for sustainable growth.
He urged Nigerians to show understanding and patience, stressing that short-term challenges should not distract from the long-term gains for the country.
The NIWA chairman also praised Tinubu’s decision to appoint a retired Army General, Gen. Christopher Musa, as Minister of Defence, describing the move as strategic in the ongoing fight against insecurity and terrorism.
According to him, the appointment has enhanced professionalism, coordination and focus within the nation’s security framework, which he said was vital for restoring peace and attracting investment.
“President’s support for the establishment of Dangote Refinery, particularly at a time when some powerful interests opposed the refinery’s success due to their benefits from the fuel subsidy regime.
“The commencement of operations at the refinery represents a major milestone in Nigeria’s drive toward energy security, self-sufficiency and economic independence,” Shagari said.
He added that, in his role as NIWA board chairman, he was committed to repositioning the agency for profitable ventures in line with the administration’s emphasis on developing the blue economy.
Shagari explained that inland water transportation was being promoted as a safer and more cost-effective alternative, consistent with global best practices, noting that measures were in place to strengthen the sector.
He disclosed that life jackets, modern boats and other safety equipment would be deployed across riverine communities nationwide to improve safety on waterways.
Shagari concluded by calling on Nigerians to continue supporting the Renewed Hope Agenda, expressing optimism that the ongoing reforms would lead to lasting prosperity and national unity.
