The opposition yesterday seized the opportunity presented by the start of a new year to advise President Bola Tinubu on how to steer Nigeria out of its current challenges.
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) criticised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s New Year nationwide broadcast, accusing it of frustrating Nigerians’ hope for good governance.
The party claimed that the speech revealed the President’s disconnection from Nigerians’ struggles due to poorly implemented policies and mismanagement of resources under his administration.
In a statement by its National Publicity Secretary, Debo Ologunagba, the PDP expressed disappointment that despite pleas from concerned citizens, Tinubu’s speech failed to provide a clear direction for the country or offer solutions to the pressing issues facing Nigerians.
“Nigerians were appalled that despite the prodding of well-meaning citizens, President Tinubu’s New Year speech did not articulate any specific direction for the nation or proffer solutions to the myriads of problems caused by APC’s misrule,” the party stated.
The PDP criticised the speech for failing to address critical issues such as the rising cost of petroleum products, widespread hunger, and the need to revitalise the country’s struggling productive sectors. It also pointed out the lack of concrete plan to tackle unemployment or boost Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs).
The party further criticised the absence of a clear strategy for improving key sectors such as electricity, oil and gas, road infrastructure, and food production, all of which are vital to the wellbeing of Nigerians.
The PDP called on the President to address the issue of fuel prices, suggesting that with better management of national resources, Nigerians should not be paying more than N350 per litre for petrol.
The opposition party also stated that President Tinubu’s claim of Nigerians’ confidence in his leadership was disconnected from the reality of his declining popularity, stressing that Nigerians had lost faith in his administration. “They are eagerly awaiting the next round of elections to end the nightmare the APC represents for the nation,” the PDP added.
Similarly, the Labour Party (LP) presidential candidate in the 2023 elections, Peter Obi, expressed concern over the omission of the North Central Regional Commission from the budgetary allocations provided to other regional commissions in the proposed 2025 budget. Obi described the development as troubling and called for its urgent reversal to ensure even growth and peace across the country.
In a statement posted on X to mark the New Year, Obi highlighted that N2.493 trillion had been allocated to five regional development commissions, with the North Central region conspicuously excluded.
“The North Central region requires special attention due to the severe challenges it faces today. Relentless terror attacks and banditry in Plateau, Benue, Kogi, and Niger States have caused immense suffering, resulting in significant loss of lives and forcing countless families into internally displaced persons (IDP) camps,” Obi said. He noted that the region, known as the agricultural backbone of the country, deserves robust support to enhance security, stability, and development for the benefit of Nigeria as a whole.
Obi called on the federal government and the National Assembly to urgently review and rectify the decision, which he said would negatively impact the region.
“A New Nigeria is not just a dream—it is possible,” he added, stressing the need for inclusivity and equity in national development efforts. In a separate report, Obi expressed concerns over the prolonged stay of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) in camps, calling attention to the federal government’s tendency to turn temporary relief shelters into semi-permanent settlements.
Obi made these remarks during his visit to the Durumi IDP camp in Abuja on New Year’s Day, where he pointed out that as long as IDPs remain in such conditions, Nigeria itself remains an IDP camp.
While at Durumi, which houses over 3,000 individuals and 340 families, Obi was struck by the deplorable state of the camp. He pledged to provide monthly stipends for four healthcare workers volunteering without pay and promised to arrange for a volunteer doctor to support the camp’s health facility.
Obi’s visit highlighted the deep-rooted challenges of insecurity, lack of education, and inadequate healthcare that have left thousands of Nigerians displaced. He criticised the camp’s absence of secondary education, vocational training, and proper healthcare, urging the government to prioritise social welfare policies.
Also, former Vice President and 2023 presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Atiku Abubakar, called on Nigerians to uphold vigilance and demand accountability from political leaders as the nation enters 2025.
In a statement posted on X to mark the New Year, Atiku urged citizens to participate actively in safeguarding democratic principles and ensuring that governance prioritises the public good.
“This New Year marks the beginning of a momentous era, one of heightened public awareness and vigilance. It is a time when every Nigerian must closely observe the actions and decisions of our political leaders,” Atiku said. He stressed the need for Nigerians to hold leaders accountable to prevent abuses of power and exploitation of public office for personal gain.
Reflecting on the challenges of the past year, Atiku expressed gratitude for the resilience of Nigerians despite the trials of 2024. “Our unshakable belief in divine protection has been our guiding light, and it is this same spirit of unwavering faith that will continue to propel us forward in the coming year,” he noted.
Atiku urged Nigerians to maintain their resolve against actions by government officials that threaten liberty or compromise the collective good. Citing the principle that “eternal vigilance is the price of liberty,” he encouraged citizens to resist attempts to exploit divisions along religious or ethnic lines, advocating for unity and shared prosperity instead.
He hoped that 2025 would begin a new chapter for Nigeria, particularly with improvements in the nation’s economy. “I pray for a revitalisation of our national economy so that we may breathe freely once more, liberated from the suffocating grip of economic hardship,” he said.
Atiku also paid tribute to Nigerians who lost their lives to economic and social hardships in the past year, urging collective action to address the challenges ahead. “Their struggles remind us of the urgent work that lies ahead,” he said, calling on the nation to work together towards building a safer, stronger, and more unified country.
The former Vice President concluded with a message of hope and unity. “With hope in my heart and faith in our collective strength, I wish you all a prosperous New Year filled with boundless blessings and success in all our endeavours,” he said.
HOWEVER, in a statement signed by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President
(Information & Strategy), yesterday, President Bola Tinubu said his administration is encouraged by the National Assembly’s support over the last 19 months and is determined to take Nigeria to the Promised Land.
The President spoke while receiving Vice President Kashim Shettima, the leadership of the National Assembly, and former principal officers of the National Assembly at his Oyinkan Abayomi Drive residence in Ikoyi, Lagos.
The New Year homage, led by Senate President Godswill Akpabio, preceded a similar visit by members of the Nigeria Governors Forum (NGF).“Nigerians are the heart of everything we are doing. We have come to serve. You have made my day by coming on this visit. Happy New Year. May God bless you and our country and give our nation more prosperity.
“The transformative journey we have embarked upon is for all of us. It is for our tomorrow. It is for the future generation. Your commitment will yield that fruit for the babies yet unborn.
“Your commitment to value addition and bringing about the spirit of can do and must do is for all of us together.
“It is for us to build a nation. We have confidence and competence. The enslavers want us to be anything but enslaved people, but we say no. We are determined, we are capable, and we are resolute, and we will be there. We will take Nigeria to that Promised Land with you,’’ President Tinubu said at the meeting.
For his part, President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, called on Nigerians to embrace unity and optimism while leveraging the nation’s diversity as a source of strength. Reflecting on the strides made in 2024, Akpabio expressed confidence in a brighter and more prosperous future.
“As we step into 2025, let us look to the year ahead with renewed hope, determination, and a collective resolve to build a greater Nigeria,” he said in a signed message, pledging to prioritise the welfare of Nigerians through purposeful legislation, oversight, and transparent representation.
The Senate President commended President Bola Tinubu’s administration for initiating critical reforms, such as tax restructuring and economic revitalisation programmes, assuring that their positive impact would become evident in 2025.
He extended greetings to President Tinubu, Vice President Kashim Shettima, Chief Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, the National Assembly, the Armed Forces, and Nigerians at home and abroad.
Akpabio also acknowledged the challenges of the past year, commiserating with families who lost loved ones and offering prayers for their peaceful repose.
This came as the National Security Adviser (NSA), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, reiterated the government’s commitment to addressing terrorism, violent extremism, and other security threats through collaboration, innovative strategies, and proactive measures.
In a statement released yesterday by Maj.-Gen. Adamu Garba Laka, National Coordinator of the National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC), Ribadu lauded the resilience of Nigerians amid security challenges and stressed the importance of collective effort in maintaining peace and stability.
Ribadu attributed the successes recorded in 2024 to President Bola Tinubu’s leadership, describing his strategic guidance and support as instrumental in advancing national security efforts. “The President’s exemplary leadership provided the foundation for the progress made in enhancing national security,” Ribadu said.
Acknowledging the dedication of the Armed Forces and security agencies, Ribadu praised their sacrifices under harsh conditions, which he described as a demonstration of patriotism and courage in safeguarding the nation’s sovereignty.
He highlighted key security challenges faced in 2024, including the resurgence of the Lakurawa Terrorist Group in the Northwest and the sabotage of critical infrastructure, such as power transmission lines, by non-state actors. Despite these setbacks, Ribadu commended the military and security agencies’ tireless efforts to address these threats.
“The cooperation and vigilance of Nigerians have been pivotal in the fight against terrorism and other security threats. The successes achieved are deeply rooted in this collaboration,” he said. Ribadu also acknowledged the contributions of the National Assembly, judiciary, state governors, and security chiefs, stressing their roles in strengthening policy frameworks and advancing security objectives.
He urged citizens to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities to authorities, stating that “security is everyone’s responsibility.” Ribadu added, “The fight against terrorism and criminality cannot be won without the active participation of citizens. If you see something, say something.”
The NSA also highlighted recent advancements in countering insecurity, including the operationalisation of the Multi-Agency Anti-Kidnap Fusion Cell at the NCTC. He called on all stakeholders to intensify efforts to build a safer and more secure nation.
Looking ahead, Ribadu assured Nigerians of the government’s renewed focus on combating terrorism and other organised crimes in 2025 through enhanced collaboration and innovative approaches. He reiterated the administration’s resolve to ensure the safety and security of all citizens.
Relatedly, Senator Abdulaziz Musa Yar’Adua urged citizens to embrace the new year with renewed determination and unity, stressing the importance of building a secure, prosperous, and inclusive nation.
In his address, the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Army and the Northern Senators Forum reaffirmed his commitment to prioritising security, economic growth, and social development. He emphasised that the nation’s future hinges on collective effort and resilience.
“This new year presents an opportunity to consolidate our progress while addressing the challenges ahead,” Yar’Adua said. “I remain committed to working tirelessly with my colleagues in the Senate to ensure that Nigeria fulfils its immense potential.”
Yar’Adua acknowledged the strides made by security forces but stressed the need for continued improvements. He vowed to intensify efforts in strengthening military capacity, enhancing intelligence gathering, and tackling the root causes of insecurity.
Yar’Adua also highlighted economic recovery and job creation as key priorities for 2025, particularly for youth and entrepreneurs. He called for strategic investments, infrastructure development, and policies to unlock Nigeria’s economic potential.
The senator urged Nigerians to rise above ethnic and religious divides, viewing the nation’s diversity as a source of strength. Still, on a positive note, Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Prof. Joseph Terlumun Utsev, pledged renewed efforts to improve Nigeria’s water sector in 2025.
In his message, Utsev commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima for their leadership under the Renewed Hope Agenda, which he said has set the nation toward sustainable growth and better living standards.
Reflecting on the past year’s achievements, the minister highlighted progress in ensuring access to safe water, improving sanitation, and promoting sustainable water resource management. He attributed these successes to the dedication of the ministry’s management team and stakeholders and the resilience of Nigerians.
“As we step into 2025, I reaffirm the ministry’s commitment to advancing water security and sanitation access as essential pillars of national development,” Utsev said. He emphasised that innovative solutions, strengthened partnerships, and community-focused strategies would be central to addressing sector challenges.
The minister also called on Nigerians to collaborate with the government to promote a cleaner, healthier environment. “Water is life, and sanitation is dignity. Together, we can build a future where every Nigerian has access to these basic human rights,” he added.
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