As President Bola Tinubu hit his 100-day mark, it becomes clear that his journey has been anything but smooth. From contentious decisions at home to an arduous diplomatic battle abroad, the Nigerian leader’s term thus far has been riddled with challenges.
The Fuel Subsidy Controversy
One of the most pronounced decisions of President Tinubu’s early days was the repeal of fuel subsidies, a move that incited significant public dissent and led to the Nigeria Labour Congress calling a two-day warning strike. While international creditors and some stakeholders lauded the bold move, a lack of immediate palliative measures plunged many Nigerians deeper into hardship, emphasizing the gap between policy-making and its actual on-ground impact.
Election Controversies
Further turbulence was witnessed in the form of legal challenges to Tinubu’s electoral victory, which boasted the lowest vote tally for a winning candidate since Nigeria’s 1999 democratic transition. Fortunately for Tinubu, the Nigerian Appeal Court dismissed the allegations on September 6, offering the President a brief respite from controversies.
The ECOWAS Chairmanship
In a surprising turn of events, Tinubu was elected as the Chairman of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) shortly after his presidential inauguration. This elevation has been one of the standout points of his early tenure, reflecting a regional trust in his leadership capabilities.
As ECOWAS Chair, Tinubu’s strong stance against coups in West Africa showcased his commitment to regional stability. His vocal condemnation of coups, paired with an emphasis on democratic governance, presented a clear stance that Africa’s political future should be determined by ballots, not bullets.
However, these strong words were put to the test quickly, with two coups in quick succession in Niger and Gabon. While critics argue that Tinubu’s focus on ECOWAS has detracted from domestic reforms, his prompt response to both situations signaled a leader unwilling to shy away from crises.
Tinubu’s Dual Roles: President and ECOWAS Chairman
Tinubu’s two hats, one as Nigeria’s President and the other as ECOWAS Chair, have certainly been a balancing act. The need to prioritize regional stability while addressing Nigeria’s plethora of issues, from economic troubles to security concerns, has been a daunting task.
However, it is essential to highlight Tinubu’s determination to “walk the talk.” His actions as ECOWAS Chairman, especially the contemplation of military intervention in Niger and the condemnation of the coup in Gabon, underscore his commitment to democratic values and regional stability.
President Bola Tinubu’s first 100 days have undeniably been marked by a series of highs and lows. While his decision on the fuel subsidy garnered significant domestic dissent, his leadership in ECOWAS presents a silver lining. It is clear that Tinubu’s tenure will be one to watch closely, both for Nigeria’s future and that of West Africa.
Image Credit: Bola Tinubu/Twitter
