Femi Gbajabiamila, Chief of Staff to President Bola Tinubu and former Speaker of Nigeria’s House of Representatives, has characterized Tinubu’s bold removal of fuel subsidy as a sign of true statesmanship, emphasizing that the decision was made in the nation’s best interest and not as a maneuver for political gain or re-election.
Speaking at the 2025 Southern Summit of former legislators in Abeokuta, Ogun State, on Saturday, Gbajabiamila addressed an audience of veteran lawmakers and political leaders. The summit, themed “National Unity: Bedrock of Nation Building,” served as a crucial forum to discuss Nigeria’s ongoing reforms and their long-term implications for stability and growth.
The summit drew several prominent figures, including former Senate President Ken Nnamani, former House Speakers Yakubu Dogara and Patricia Etteh, as well as Ajibola Bashiru, National Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC). Also in attendance were Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun and the Speaker of the Ogun State House of Assembly, Oludaisi Elemide. Their collective presence underscored the importance of unity across Nigeria’s political spectrum as the country navigates turbulent economic reforms.
Gbajabiamila, who convened this year’s summit, stressed that the Tinubu administration was never afraid to take tough decisions necessary for national progress. According to his remarks, President Tinubu’s government made it clear from the outset that it would pursue critical reforms despite their potential unpopularity, all in a bid to place Nigeria on a stronger long-term footing. One such move was the removal of the longstanding fuel subsidy, alongside the implementation of tax reforms and the establishment of the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND).
“These are not the actions of a politician thinking about the next election. They are acts of extraordinary statesmanship by a leader whose highest concern is the fortune of the Nigerian people and the fate of the next generation,” Gbajabiamila declared at the event, echoing a sentiment that drew nods of support from the audience.
Gbajabiamila openly acknowledged the immediate economic pain caused by these reforms, particularly the removal of fuel subsidy, which has led to higher transportation and living costs for millions of Nigerians. He appealed for patience and understanding, noting, “fixing what has long been broken imposes costs, entails sacrifice and takes time.” This message resonates particularly with the working class and businesses grappling with soaring costs of goods and services in recent months.
Adding his perspective, former Speaker Yakubu Dogara issued a call to focus on unity and collective progress rather than division and retribution. According to Dogara, “pretenders” who thrive on creating distractions and fostering vengeance threaten to derail national priorities. He cautioned that Nigeria’s progress depends on refusing to be sidetracked and staying committed to the larger vision of nation-building.
Broader Impact and Mixed Reactions
The removal of fuel subsidy is one of Nigeria’s most controversial economic reforms in recent years. While government officials argue that it frees up funds for vital public services and curbs smuggling and corruption in the distribution sector, critics say the hardship on ordinary citizens is severe. According to a June 2023 National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) report, transportation costs surged by over 50% within months of the subsidy’s removal, with inflation climbing to multi-decade highs. Businesses—particularly those reliant on fuel for generators—continue to struggle with operating costs, pass-through inflation, and dampened consumer demand.
Some experts, such as Lagos-based economist Mrs. Adenike Adewale, argue that subsidy removal was inevitable: “For years, the allocation to subsidies outpaced spending on health and education combined. While the immediate effect is tough, Nigeria can’t rebuild with the economy on artificial support.” However, grassroots leaders and several civic organizations emphasize that social protection and targeted interventions are needed so that the poorest Nigerians do not bear an outsized burden.
Regional Influences and Continental Comparisons
Nigeria is not alone in grappling with the complexities of fuel subsidies. Ghana, for instance, has also faced public protests and strikes after subsidy withdrawal in past years, leading to mass transit initiatives and phased fuel pricing. West Africa’s largest economies now look to broader energy reforms as global oil markets shift and international agencies encourage subsidy removal to stabilize fiscal positions.
Experts note that Nigeria’s reforms will be closely watched by neighboring countries. If the Nigerian approach yields promising results—such as increased investment in infrastructure, improved job creation, or poverty reduction—it may serve as a model. However, challenges with implementation, transparency, and communication have stymied similar efforts elsewhere.
The Way Forward: Balancing Reform with Social Protection
Despite government reassurances, everyday Nigerians continue to voice concerns over affordability and access. According to a recent survey by Channels TV, nearly 60% of respondents believe that while subsidy removal was necessary, social security programs must be scaled up to cushion its impact. Initiatives like NELFUND, targeted cash transfers, and subsidized public transport could offer some relief, but monitoring and delivery remain ongoing challenges.
In Ogun State, market trader Mrs. Folashade Adebayo shared her daily reality with reporters: “Business is not moving like before; transport and food prices are too high. We need more help from the government until things balance out.” Her sentiment—shared by many in local communities—highlights the urgency of pairing bold economic reforms with tangible support for citizens most affected by policy shifts.
A Call for Unity, Accountability, and Collective Sacrifice
As the summit concluded, speakers reiterated that unity and sacrifice are vital for progress. Political leaders from different backgrounds agreed that transparent communication and ongoing dialogue with the public are crucial to reducing mistrust and ensuring the success of transformative policies. According to Ogun-based political analyst Tunde Salisu, “The reforms can only work if citizens buy in and believe that their sacrifices will lead to real opportunity and growth.”
The eyes of Nigeria—and West Africa—remain fixed on the outcomes of these policies, as regional economies face their own calls for energy and subsidy reforms. Communities and policymakers alike must engage constructively to forge a path toward sustainable development, inclusive growth, and national renewal.
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