OPINION:  2024 CHRISTMAS FUEL SUPPLY: A LANDMARK ACHIEVEMENT

By UTUM ETENG

William Cullen Bryant once opined that “there is something about life that suppresses falsehood… truth crushed to earth shall rise again”

When in May, 29th 2023, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu was sworn-in as Nigeria 5th democratically elected President, he on the sport boldly let Nigerians to know that, he was not coming in office to be a failed guy reference the vexed fuel/subsidy was matter which was avoided be addressed by past administrations.

PRESIDENT TINUBU
Unequivocally, proceeded as the President who saw tomorrow on the matter to public announced to the shock and surprise of every Nigerian listening to his acceptance speech, the removal of fuel subsidy policy. The decision was met with widespread criticism, doubt, disbelieve which was hyped by the long time beneficiaries of the subsidy regime who were as well taken by surprise.

Whilst Bola Tinubu as at December, 2024 has only been Nigeria President for 16 months of Nigeria 24 years of democracy, it cannot be augured that, by the non-removal of fuel subsidy matter, Nigerians have not been paying the price of the failure of action failed to taken by past Presidents to boldly initiate reforms with the attendant pains on the people.

The lavished flow of fuel in petrol stations across the country during the 2024 festive period provided a proof that Tinubu’s fuel removal subsidy was not only necessary but has also yielded practical and remarkable results. It is pertinent to observe that, the 2024 Christmas period is now gone, with the year 2025 ushered in with yet steady fuel supply and sale sat stations still in progress.        

For the first time in the history of democracy in Nigeria this has never been the case, its truly unprecedented. It is a feat recorded by the Tinubu administration for which he should be hailed.

To say the least, Nigerians are now reaping the benefits of this bold step, the ease of access to fuel during last Christmas season is a positive proof that, difficult decisions, when made with the nation’s best interest in mind, can lead to positive outcomes. This feat supports the adage that “tough times fo not last, but tough people last, to reap from such times.

By this feat, President Tinubu has proven that, with patience and understanding Nigeria’s recovery agenda is positive. While some of his policies may take some time to fully mature to reap the their intended benefits, Nigerians must remain patient and supportive. After all recovery from years if economic challenges even in advanced countries requires time, determination, and collective effort.

Nigerians must learn to give credit to the President where like in this case he deserved to be given. Those attempting to sabotage the administration should reconsider their actions, as progress requires cooperation an understanding from all stakeholders.

With fuel now available, it is important for traders and drivers to respond positively. The cost of transportation should reflect the improved fuel situation, leading to reduced prices of goods and service. This is an opportunity for traders and drivers to reciprocate the benefits and ease the financial burden placed on the ordinary Nigerian. By doing so, they contribute to a more stable and fair economy.

This appeal to reciprocate this improved fuel situations from all intents and purposes is timely because, increase of prices of food items in our markets lack of fuel today come under cover is everywhere at affordable cost. The Christmas 2024 fuel situation is a remarkable achievement that deserve celebration. President Bola Ahmed Tinube has made commendable history, achieving what no other civilian administration has since the advent of democracy in 1999 has achieved.

Kudos may have to be extended to President Tinubu for his visionary leadership as we courage him to make further tough decisions that will bebefit Nigerians on the long run. As we celebrate this festive season, let us appreciate the progress made so far and continue to support efforts that will lead to a brighter and more prosperous future for Nigeria individual political alignment notwithstanding.

Let this milestone achievement serve as a reminder that, with patience. Understanding, and unity, greater achievements are within reach.

Chief Barr. Utum Eteng
Calabar
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