Mr. President, HE (Sen) Bola Ahmed Tinubu(GCFR)
President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria
Aso Rock Presidential Villa
Abuja, Nigeria
Dear Mr. President,
I write to you with a heavy heart, compelled by the urgent need to address the dire situation in our country. It is disheartening to observe that the current circumstances are benefitting only a mere 12% of our population—those in power—while the majority of Nigerians continue to suffer. This imbalance has turned corruption into a nearly legal entity, deeply embedded in our society and governance.
As we celebrate our 64th year of independence, I must ask: what hope do we have for future generations? Are we to continue celebrating corruption while sustainable development eludes us? Mr. President Sir, you are a leader of dignity, yet many in your cabinet seem more focused on their own interests than on serving the nation. It is high time you set a legacy that reflects the true potential of Nigeria.
Recently, the World Bank approved a $1.57 billion financing package for Nigeria, aimed at supporting our health and education sectors and providing sustainable power. While this financial assistance may appear beneficial, it only highlights the ongoing struggle of our nation to stand on its own two feet. With over $15 billion already lent to Nigeria, we must question whether these loans truly lead to progress or merely create further dependency.
The new financing includes significant allocations: $500 million to address governance issues hindering our education and health systems, $570 million for the Primary Healthcare Provision Strengthening Program, and another $500 million for the Sustainable Power and Irrigation for Nigeria Project. However, these funds will not solve the root problems we face. Nigeria is plagued by the highest number of out-of-school children, exacerbated by insecurity—particularly in the northern regions—where insurgency and armed gangs wreak havoc.
We need not rely solely on foreign loans. Instead, we must tap into our vast mineral resources. I conducted a feasibility study on gold mining, my core area of expertise, and found that we could generate the foreign exchange we seek from the World Bank within just months of operation. Unfortunately, the 80% of funds we borrow often end up siphoned away by those on the ground, with little benefit to our people.
Hunger is pushing our youth toward desperation, and we must take immediate action. Raising the minimum wage will not suffice; instead, we must focus on increasing productivity across all sectors. Additionally, state governments should be challenged to generate their own revenue, fostering a sense of accountability and self-sufficiency.
To combat the escalating cost of living and curb food insecurity, the government must establish food industry hubs. These hubs would play a crucial role in streamlining food production and distribution, ultimately stabilizing prices and ensuring that essential commodities are accessible to all Nigerians. Furthermore, we should trade our agricultural commodities in naira for export. Nigeria is blessed with abundant resources—gold, mica, lithium, antimony, and ore—yet we are not fully leveraging them. We need to be compassionate toward our people and shift our focus from power struggles that only serve to enrich a few.
As it stands, the price of fuel has soared to ₦1,200 per liter, placing an unbearable burden on families who must also pay for food, school fees, and rent with their limited incomes. Nigerians are unhappy and have rated your leadership far above the current reality. There is an abundance of technocrats in Nigeria—individuals who are not merely political lobbyists. You must begin appointing passionate individuals who have no political history but are dedicated to fixing our nation. Look at how Akinwumi Adesina was discovered during Jonathan’s presidency; we have a generation of youths who are equally passionate and committed to the progress of Nigeria.
Furthermore, it is essential to address how governors and politicians often construct roads, install temporary solar lights, and create boreholes as short-term fixes to camouflage their lack of commitment to sustainable development. We celebrate these actions, yet they represent only basic amenities that any leader should provide. We need to start evaluating our governors and politicians based on their commitment to sustainable development projects. What new initiatives are you introducing for your people? How are you leveraging our resources to ensure we utilize what we have?
Take note of China, which was nowhere to be found on the global stage 25 years ago but is now a leading player because its leaders were deliberate in their vision to compete on the world stage. Nigeria has all it takes to become the giant of Africa and an industrial hub for the world. This is how our naira will regain strength—by trading with our currency. We must revitalize our agricultural sector and focus on commodities like cocoa, palm oil, and cashew. These are the products we need to trade in naira, reinforcing our economy and creating a more sustainable future.
It is crucial to recognize that a cabinet reshuffle is necessary. Many current holders are not performing effectively and are not surrounded by committed aides who understand the intricacies of their roles. It is high time you are deliberate about fixing Nigeria by allowing the voices of capable individuals to advise you positively. We must engage new perspectives that prioritize the needs of the majority and work tirelessly toward rebuilding our legacy.
“As we reflect on these pressing issues, it becomes evident that the path to healing and prosperity lies in our collective commitment to humility, compassion, and earnest effort. These values are essential in fostering a sense of unity and understanding among us. When we prioritize self-reflection and actively seek to understand one another, we create an environment where dialogue can flourish, and solutions can be found.
Moreover, it is crucial that we turn away from divisive practices and attitudes that hinder our progress. By acknowledging our shared humanity and working together towards common goals, we can address the challenges facing our nation more effectively. History shows us that transformative change often begins at the grassroots level, with individuals taking initiative and leading by example.
Ultimately, our willingness to engage in this process, coupled with a steadfast resolve to uplift one another, will pave the way for a brighter future. Together, we can cultivate a society where healing prevails and prosperity is within reach for all.”
Let us unite to fix Nigeria, for the future of our nation depends on the actions we take today. The choices we make now will define our path forward, and we must prioritize the needs of the many over the interests of the few, ensuring that every Nigerian has the opportunity to thrive.
Thank you for your attention to these pressing matters. I remain hopeful for the positive change we can achieve together.
Yours sincerely,
Dr. Tofunmi Ogunronbi.
Former Gubernatorial Candidate in Ogun State
