Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila, praised President Bola Tinubu’s decision to remove fuel subsidies and implement other reforms, calling it “extraordinary statesmanship.” The former Speaker of the House of Representatives commended the president’s courage in tackling difficult reforms, noting that the federal government is no longer paying inflated subsidy claims that benefited only a few privileged citizens.
Speaking at the 2025 Southern Summit of former legislators in Abeokuta, Ogun State, Gbajabiamila highlighted 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‑law reforms into law, he said, has ushered in a new era of economic justice, fairness, and accountability.
The removal of fuel subsidies has been a contentious issue in Nigeria, with previous administrations facing protests and criticism over attempts to reduce or eliminate them. President Tinubu announced the subsidy removal during his inauguration in May 2023, attracting mixed reactions. Critics argue the decision exacerbates economic hardship, while supporters believe it is necessary for the country’s economic growth. The Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, also backed the removal, stating that the practice was unsustainable and would have driven the country into bankruptcy if continued. Sanusi argued that the billions spent on subsidies could have been better used to develop refineries and create jobs.
Gbajabiamila expressed gratitude to Nigerians for supporting President Tinubu’s reforms, asserting that the president is making decisions that should have been taken years ago. He stressed that the reforms will yield long‑term benefits for the nation, especially for the next generation. With the backing of former legislators and other stakeholders, President Tinubu’s administration is advancing its economic reform agenda, aiming to strengthen the economy and secure a prosperous future for Nigerian youths.
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