Otti Defends Tinubu’s Reforms, Says Hardship Stems From Years of Poor Economic Policies

Abia State Governor Alex Otti has defended President Bola Tinubu’s economic reforms, describing them as bold decisions necessary to reposition Nigeria’s economy despite the hardship currently experienced by many citizens.

Otti made the remarks on Tuesday while receiving the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, who visited Abia State to celebrate the rich cultural heritage of Akwete weaving.

The governor asked the First Lady to convey his appreciation to President Tinubu, commending him for implementing reforms that previous administrations had avoided.

“I want you to please thank him for his courage and sacrifices,” Otti said. “It takes a courageous leader to remove the petroleum subsidy and allow the naira to float.”

According to the governor, the removal of fuel subsidy and the liberalisation of the foreign exchange market have significantly increased revenue available to the Federal Government, states and local governments.

He explained that the reforms have enabled governments at various levels to channel more resources into infrastructure development, salary payments and programmes that encourage productivity rather than consumption.

“What has that done? It has freed up a lot of funds that would have been used in financing consumption to doing other things in the federal government, in the states and in the local governments,” he said.

Otti noted that many states are now better positioned to meet financial obligations, including paying workers’ salaries promptly and investing in development projects.

While acknowledging that the reforms have imposed short-term economic challenges on Nigerians, he argued that such consequences are expected whenever difficult but necessary policy decisions are implemented.

He maintained that the current hardship should not be viewed solely as the result of recent reforms but rather as the outcome of years of unsustainable economic practices and poor policy choices.

“So what people interpret as hardship today is a fallout of previous bad behaviour,” the governor said, expressing confidence that the economy would gradually stabilise as the reforms take effect.

Otti also reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to inclusive governance, stressing that Abia State remains home to every Nigerian regardless of ethnic background or political affiliation.

He added that effective governance should always rise above party politics, emphasising that development and public service must remain the primary focus of any government.