Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has defended the economic reforms introduced by President Bola Tinubu, arguing that the administration’s policies are beginning to reposition Nigeria for long-term growth, greater fiscal stability and increased investor confidence.
Idris made the remarks on Tuesday in Abuja while receiving members of the APC Forum of Former Presiding Officers of State Houses of Assembly (FOPSHA), led by its chairman, Senator Wasiu Esinlokun. The visit provided the minister with an opportunity to highlight what the government considers the major gains of its economic agenda nearly three years into Tinubu’s administration.
According to Idris, the reforms pursued by the government have involved difficult decisions that previous administrations were reluctant to implement. Chief among them are the removal of fuel subsidies and changes to Nigeria’s foreign exchange regime, measures that initially triggered economic hardship but which the government insists are necessary for sustainable development.
The minister argued that these policies have improved the fiscal capacity of both the federal and state governments, strengthened external reserves and contributed to better economic performance. He also cited the expansion of the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) and increased investment in infrastructure as evidence of the administration’s broader development strategy.
Among the projects highlighted were the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway and the Sokoto-Badagry Super Highway, both of which the government views as critical to improving connectivity and stimulating economic activity across the country. Idris also pointed to ongoing efforts to tackle insecurity, describing security as a key component of the administration’s economic agenda.
“President Bola Tinubu took courageous decisions that previous administrations avoided for decades,” the minister said.
“Today, Nigeria is witnessing greater fiscal stability, improved investor confidence, enhanced infrastructure development and expanding opportunities for citizens. The foundation has been laid for a more prosperous future.”
Beyond outlining the government’s achievements, Idris called on members of FOPSHA to leverage their political experience and grassroots networks to promote public understanding of the administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda. He stressed the importance of communicating the long-term benefits of ongoing reforms to Nigerians, many of whom continue to grapple with the short-term economic consequences.
The minister also pledged the support of federal media organisations for the forum’s upcoming National Executive Council and Board of Trustees meeting.
Earlier, Esinlokun said the delegation’s visit was aimed at updating the ministry on the forum’s activities and seeking support for its forthcoming gathering, which is expected to bring together former state assembly speakers, ex-governors, former ministers and serving senators.
According to him, the forum remains committed to mobilising support for the Tinubu administration through sustained engagement with communities across the country.
