Shettima Defends Tinubu’s Reforms, Says President Deserves Praise

(VP Kashim Shettima. Photo by Posh Report)

Vice President Kashim Shettima has defended the economic reforms of President Bola Tinubu’s administration, arguing that the President deserves commendation rather than condemnation for the steps taken to reshape the Nigerian economy.

Shettima made the remarks while defending the government’s reform agenda and highlighting what he described as progress resulting from the administration’s economic policies.

His comments come amid continued public debate over the effects of the reforms on Nigerians, particularly the cost of living and household purchasing power.

The Tinubu administration has implemented major reforms since taking office, including the removal of the petrol subsidy and changes to the foreign exchange system, with the government arguing that these measures were necessary to address structural weaknesses in the economy, improve government finances and create the conditions for sustainable growth.

The reforms have, however, also generated significant public criticism due to their impact on inflation, transportation, food prices and the broader cost of living.

Shettima maintained that the government’s economic direction should be assessed against its broader objectives and the results being recorded, with his defence reflecting the administration’s continued effort to explain and justify its economic policies amid criticism from opposition politicians and other stakeholders.

The government has repeatedly argued that the initial difficulties associated with the reforms are part of a transition toward a more sustainable economy.

Critics of the administration maintain that Nigerians are bearing a heavy burden from the reforms and have called for stronger measures to cushion their effects.

The Presidency, however, continues to defend the policies, insisting that the reforms are intended to establish a stronger foundation for long-term economic growth, with the debate over whether the reforms deserve praise or criticism expected to remain a major political issue ahead of the 2027 general election.