Nigeria still work in progress despite Tinubu’s reforms – Uzodimma

Governor Hope Uzodimma Acknowledges Ongoing Challenges in Nigeria

ABUJA — Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma stated on Sunday that Nigeria continues to grapple with significant challenges, describing the nation as a “work in progress.” His comments came during the third Raymond Dokpesi Lecture, where he also serves as the chairman of the Progressive Governors’ Forum.

Uzodimma highlighted President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s recent economic reforms, notably the removal of fuel subsidies and the liberalization of the naira, which he believes have contributed to greater economic stability in Nigeria. However, he emphasized that these reforms are only the beginning, and considerable efforts remain necessary to tackle the country’s pressing issues.

Among the areas Uzodimma identified as needing improvement are food security, human capital development, and the electoral process. He noted, “Recent economic reforms, which ended the first subsidy regime and multiple currency exchanges, have allowed the country to achieve improved economic stability, enhanced foreign reserves, and initiated significant infrastructure projects across the continent.”

Despite these advancements, Uzodimma cautioned against complacency. “We still have work to do, particularly in terms of infrastructure, especially power. Our unity sometimes feels fragile,” he remarked. He further acknowledged the ongoing challenges related to food security and the need for better outcomes in key human development indicators such as literacy, life expectancy, and poverty reduction.

Uzodimma also remarked on the electoral process, stating that while Nigeria has made progress in its democracy, there is still much to improve. “All hands must be on deck until we achieve the country of our dreams,” he concluded.

The theme of the lecture, “Media, Democracy and National Development,” drew attention to the importance of the media’s role in Nigeria’s democratic landscape. Earlier in the event, Dr. Ike Neliaku, President of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations, alongside Senator Adedayo Adeyeye, chairman of the Nigerian Ports Authority, commended the late Raymond Dokpesi for his significant contributions to the democratization of Nigeria’s media landscape.

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