By Ibironke Ariyo
An NGO, Anti-Kidnapping, Human Trafficking, Child Abuse and Drug Abuse Initiative (AKH-TRACADA) said Nigeria is recording significant strides in economy and security under President Bola Tinubu’s stewardship.
The Founder of the NGO, Primate Belonwu Ezeanyaeche, said this in a statement on Tuesday in Abuja to commemorate the 64th Independence Anniversary of the nation.
Ezeanyaeche said that Tinubu’s administration had also fulfilled key promises of his Renewed Hope Agenda.
He said that the government’s bold economic reforms, including the withdrawal of unsustainable fuel subsidies and unification of the forex market, redirected funds to critical sectors like healthcare, education, and infrastructure.
“These measures have reduced petrol importation by 50 per cent, boosted investor confidence, and made the Nigerian Stock Exchange the top-performing bourse globally,”he said.
He, however, said that the President also prioritised securing lives and properties, modernising and equipping security agencies with significant successes being recorded.
He added that the group carefully studied what had been done since Tinubu’s assumption of office to bring peace and stability to volatile parts of the country because of its concern about the security challenges the country had faced.
He said “thousands of hostages regained freedom, Over 9,300 hostilities were neutralised
“Over 7,000 terrorists, bandits, and criminals brought to book, recovery of over 4,800 assorted weapons and 93,900 rounds of ammunition among others.
“The administration also launched initiatives to combat banditry and cattle rustling, including the N50 billion Pulako Initiative, “he said.
The NGO founder maintained that Tinubu’s administration had also made significant strides in boosting agriculture, unlocking energy and natural resources, and promoting economic growth.
Ezeanyaeche added that the Dry Season Farming Initiative, financed by the African Development Bank with $134 million, aimed to promote year-round farming on 500,000 hectares of farmland.
He emphasised that partnerships with an American firm, John Deere would supply 2,000 tractors annually for five years.
“The Green Imperative Program, a $1 billion bilateral partnership with Brazil, provides farmers with training, machines, and equipment.
“The Renewed Hope Agenda enhances the oil and gas sector’s efficiency, ensuring local communities and the nation benefit from solid mineral resources.
“The Nigerian Liquefied Natural Gas (NLNG) production rose from 57 per cent in 2023 to 70 per cent.
“Programs like the three million Technical Talent Initiative and the Investment in Digital and Creative Enterprise (iDICE) Program empower youths with digital skills.
“The National Job Centre connects employers to qualified candidates, streamlining recruitment processes,”he said.
Hee said that the Renewed Hope Infrastructure Development Fund (RHIDF) also addresses the country’s infrastructure funding gap, aiming to raise N20 trillion.
He said that the projects included the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway, Sokoto-Badagry Expressway, modernised ports and aviation facilities.
He said that the administration prioritised primary healthcare, expanding centres from 8,800 to 17,000.
“The Student Loans Act and Nigerian Education Loan Fund broaden access to education. Social welfare schemes include cash transfers to vulnerable households and micro-credit schemes for traders and farmers,”he said.
He, however, said that Tinubu’s administration had also made significant strides in improving governance, accelerating economic diversification, and promoting social welfare.
He added that the government also implemented various policy initiatives, including the mobiliser app for citizen engagement and the Citizens’ Delivery Tracker App to enhance transparency and accountability.
“In anti-corruption efforts, the administration also reinforced anti-corruption institutions, launched nationwide campaigns, and pursued high-profile cases.
“In sports development, the Ministry of Sports achieved significant milestones, including a substantial budget allocation, debt clearance for national football teams, and investments in infrastructure.
“The administration also promoted gender inclusivity through key appointments, economic empowerment programs, and initiatives supporting women with disabilities, “he added.
Ezeanyaeche believed that President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda aims to transform Nigeria across various sectors, ensuring sustainable development and improved quality of life for all Nigerians.
He maintained that the administration’s efforts have yielded positive results, demonstrating a commitment to economic growth, diversification, and good governance.
“With President Tinubu’s leadership, Nigeria is poised for lasting progress and a brighter future.
“We believe that Tinubu’s commitment to democracy and visionary leadership has inspired confidence and trust among Nigerians, promising hope and transformation for the nation,”he affirmed.
