The Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila, has praised President Bola Tinubu’s decision to remove fuel subsidies and implement other reforms, describing it as “extraordinary statesmanship.” Gbajabiamila, a former Speaker of the House of Representatives, commended the president’s courage in tackling difficult reforms, stating that the federal government is no longer paying inflated subsidy claims that benefited only a few privileged citizens.
At the 2025 Southern Summit of former legislators in Abeokuta, Ogun State, Gbajabiamila noted that every Nigerian child is now guaranteed a tertiary education through the Nigerian Education Loan Funds. He emphasized that President Tinubu’s actions demonstrate a commitment to the nation’s future, rather than a focus on the next election. The signing of tax laws reform into law has ushered in a new era of economic justice, fairness, and accountability, according to Gbajabiamila.
The removal of fuel subsidies has been a contentious issue in Nigeria, with previous administrations facing protests and criticism over attempts to remove or reduce them. President Tinubu’s decision to remove the subsidy was announced during his inauguration in May 2023 and has attracted mixed reactions. While critics argue that the decision exacerbates economic hardship, supporters believe it is necessary for the country’s economic growth.
The Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, has also backed the removal of fuel subsidies, stating that the practice was unsustainable and would have driven the country into bankruptcy if allowed to continue. Sanusi argued that the billions spent on subsidies could have been better utilized to develop the country’s refineries and create jobs.
Gbajabiamila expressed gratitude to Nigerians for their support of President Tinubu’s reforms, stating that the president is making decisions that should have been made years ago. He emphasized that the reforms will have long-term benefits for the nation, particularly for the next generation. With the support of former legislators and other stakeholders, President Tinubu’s administration is pushing forward with its economic reform agenda, aiming to strengthen the economy and secure a prosperous future for Nigerian youths.
