Deputy Senate President, faults Osinbajo’s gloomy assessment of Nigeria’s economy
Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin has criticized former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo for his pessimistic evaluation of Nigeria’s economy and democratic landscape.
Speaking in Yola at a lecture commemorating the 59th birthday of Adamawa State Governor Ahmadu Fintiri, Barau acknowledged the ongoing efforts of the Tinubu administration to tackle enduring issues within the country. However, he emphasized the need for improved communication regarding the administration’s initiatives.
Osinbajo, referencing Afrobarometer surveys, expressed concern that while 64% of Africans favor democracy, only 38% are satisfied with its implementation. He noted that 59% of respondents rated their economies as poor, with 51% indicating a decline in economic conditions.
During his address, Barau highlighted the challenges of hardship, unemployment, inadequate healthcare, and low youth voter turnout as factors undermining public confidence in democratic governance. He called the lecture insightful but suggested that the bleak outlook stems, in part, from insufficient communication between leaders and the populace.
“There is no proper communication,” Barau remarked, commending Osinbajo’s skills as a speaker and intellectual.
He pointed to government initiatives, including the National Education Loan Fund (NELFUND), which helps underprivileged students access education. On infrastructure, Barau mentioned several ongoing projects, such as the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway and the Badagry-Sokoto Highway, as part of the administration’s strategy to enhance national prosperity.
Furthermore, he attributed rising living costs to global factors, including the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict and tensions in the Middle East, which have disrupted supply chains and impacted energy prices, especially in critical routes like the Strait of Hormuz.
“Nigeria is not an island,” Barau stated, urging leaders to improve communication about policies to foster greater understanding of the challenges and progress made by the government.
