Give Tinubu Time Says Umar Abubakar.
A Nigerian citizen, Engineer Umar Abubakar, whose heart is drawn towards President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s capability to proffer needed solutions to Nigeria’s challenges, currently joins his voice to numerous lovers and die-hard believers of the All Progressives Congress political leader and declares support for the President’s sagacity in finding a lasting solution to Nigeria’s power problems.
In his words, Eng. Abubakar stated that the government has achieved significant milestones in improving the transmission network under the able leadership of Engineer Abdulazeez, a member of the Transmission Company of Nigeria.
Mr. Umar Abubakar, who started his primary school education in Kebbi State and proceeded to secondary school and polytechnic, where he was a distinction student, later completed his postgraduate studies and earned a Master’s degree at Ambrose Alli University in Edo State. He subsequently obtained a PhD in Accounting from Nasarawa State University.
To complement the competence of the present government, Eng. Abubakar also declared his vision and mission to work towards achieving the milestones and objectives set by this administration.
He said: “It is evident that the government started amidst turbulence, but by the grace of God, we are gradually achieving stability.” Initially, some people did not understand the government’s direction, but we are now witnessing economic improvements. For example, in the past two days, we have seen positive changes in the foreign exchange market and improved balances daily. It has been an incredible journey with significant foreign investments being realized.
Though we can say that Nigerians are always impatient, it is becoming noticeable now that the little patience we have extended to the government is yielding results. We have observed the naira appreciating, something we thought would not happen. Fuel is now readily available everywhere, and prices are gradually stabilizing.
The introduction of the CNG project has become one of the cornerstones of this administration. For instance, I recently visited a place where people were queuing to participate in the CNG arrangements. The government is doing well, and I believe 2025 will be a remarkable year with significant economic improvement. Every project encounters challenges initially, but we are overcoming them gradually.
I appeal to my fellow Nigerians to remain patient and dedicated to their jobs so that these milestones can be achieved. I am confident that, with proper public support, this government will accomplish great things.
The President has good intentions. While his reforms are commendable, they should be discussed thoroughly to ensure proper understanding and inclusivity. I wish this government success and enjoy serving in this glorious administration.”
Working in the Federal Ministry of Power, Eng. Abubakar shared the numerous challenges encountered in the system, noting that they have been identified and steps are being taken to address them.
He further highlighted his experience in finance administration under the Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC) and other financially inclined agencies, adding that he is also a Chartered Accountant.
“Our administration has significant debts that need to be addressed, and we have introduced schemes to ensure these debts are paid off,” he stated.
According to Eng. Abubakar, the Honourable Minister of Power, has taken the grid issue seriously. The solution lies in transitioning from a centralized grid to a mini-grid system, which would ensure consistent electricity availability across states.
“The management is working hard to implement these solutions. With the current government initiatives, I believe the power supply will be stable by 2025,” he said.
“It is impractical for everyone to have the same electricity band. The bands are designed to ensure fairness. For instance, Band A is for people with a more consistent power supply, and naturally, they pay higher tariffs than those with less supply.
The introduction of these bands ensures payment fairness while incentivizing increased light hours. Each state now has the authority to manage its power supply, which aligns with government policies.”
Eng. Abubakar also addressed concerns about power distribution across states. “The Power Ministry is not rocket science; it requires effective administration. Whether the minister is an accountant or an engineer, the focus is on managerial capability. As an accountant, I can develop projections that ensure efficient power distribution.
Nigeria’s challenge is insufficient power generation—5,000 MW cannot meet the needs of over 200 million people. This shortfall must be addressed.”
He emphasized: “If given higher responsibility in the Ministry, with wisdom from the President and collaborative meetings, the power sector challenges can be resolved. Non-performing individuals should be replaced.
It should be noted that some believe Nigeria focuses excessively on hydropower. We need to diversify into other power sources like solar. No country survives solely on one power source. While hydro is cheaper, the government recognizes the need for diversification and is working on integrating other energy sources.
Distribution has been privatized in terms of megawatts, but some companies are not fully prepared for the task. The distribution companies must expand their capacity. The President and Minister of Power are responsible for ensuring distribution is effective.
Until customers experience consistent electricity, the distribution reforms will have limited impact.”
When asked to assess the President’s progress since May 29, 2023, especially in economic reforms, Eng. Abubakar said, “President Tinubu has been exceptional. Though misunderstood initially, he has made tough but necessary decisions. If asked to score him, I would give him an 8/10. By the end of 2025, Nigerians will have cause for celebration. Economic and tax reforms are commendable, particularly those that consolidate multiple taxes into one.
I believe in President Tinubu’s capability to deliver results. With time, I saw the wisdom in his decisions. As an accountant, I recognize that progress requires patience. Prosperous nations have endured similar phases, and we must be willing to persevere.
While Mr. President continues to flourish in directing the affairs of the Nigerian economy, I wish President Tinubu prosperity and appreciate his vision and leadership. I wish him good health, wisdom, and continued success in making transformative decisions for Nigeria.”
