Tinubu’s Reforms Key to Stronger Nigeria – Kwara Commissioner

• Olukoju praised the removal of subsidies, unification of the exchange rate, and tax reforms, saying they had saved over ₦1 trillion and attracted foreign investment

• Major infrastructure projects and social programs are boosting growth; inflation fell to 23.7% by May 2025, strengthening prospects

President Bola Tinubu’s economic reforms, though politically sensitive, are crucial for building a stronger and more competitive Nigeria.

This was stated by Kwara State Commissioner for Communications, Hon. Bolanle Olukoju, during the 2025 Press Week and the 45th anniversary of the Correspondents’ Chapel of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) in Ilorin. The event carried the theme, “The Renewed Hope Agenda: A Mid-Term Appraisal of President Tinubu’s Reforms, Success and Prospects.”

Represented by Alhaji Olayinka Salau, Director of Information Services, Olukoju said the Renewed Hope Agenda aims to boost economic growth, strengthen security, improve infrastructure, expand social welfare, and empower the youth.

She listed the removal of fuel subsidy, exchange rate unification, and tax reforms as bold steps to place the nation on a sustainable path. According to her, the removal of subsidies alone has saved over ₦1 trillion, crude oil production has improved, and foreign investment is growing.

Olukoju also highlighted major infrastructure projects, such as the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway and the Sokoto-Badagry Superhighway. She added that social initiatives, including conditional cash transfers, student loans, and affordable credit schemes, are already having a positive impact on lives.

She noted that inflation had dropped from 34.6% to 23.7% as of May 2025 and urged journalists to help amplify these achievements towards the goal of a $1 trillion economy by 2030.

Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, represented by Chief Press Secretary Rafiu Ajakaye, called on the media to uphold professionalism and responsible reporting. He said the press holds the power to shape national development and must protect the public interest.

Earlier, Correspondents’ Chapel Chairman, Abdulhakeem Garba, reflected on his six-year tenure, describing it as a period of both challenges and fulfilment. He urged the state to arrange a media tour across wards and constituencies to showcase ongoing projects.

In a goodwill message, Alhaji Abdulraheem Adedoyin, the Oloriewe of Oro Kingdom and former Commissioner for Communication, advised journalists to stay true to ethics and promote both local and national progress.

Guest speaker Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim, represented by Abdulrazaq Hamzat, emphasised the importance of fearless journalism in holding institutions accountable.

He warned that abuse in the academic sector undermines democracy and pledged a cash donation to support press independence as a pillar of democratic governance.