In a nation grappling with the persistent challenge of eliminating fuel-based subsidies, Nigeria stands at a crucial crossroads. Since the inception of fuel subsidies in 1970, successive governments have attempted to remove them, only to be met with stiff political complexities that have allowed the subsidy to persist for a long. However, the time has come for decisive action.
President Abimbola Ahmed Tinubu in his inaugural speech declared an end to fuel subsidy in an unambiguous word “It has gone for good”. To put an end to the government’s continuous subsidizing of fuel, will mark a significant domestic policy shift if it’s become successful. As the nation braces for the potential repercussions, citizens are faced with a critical question: Is Nigeria better off with or without fuel subsidies?
The debate surrounding fuel subsidies has always been fraught with controversies and conflicting interests. Critics argue that fuel subsidy has overstayed its usefulness, draining exorbitant amounts of money from governments’ lean purses year in, in, and year out-without significant impact on the lives of ordinary citizens it meant to benefit. Instead, these subsidies often end up benefiting individuals and independent marketers, exacerbating inequality and inflation in the process. Over the years, the removal of fuel subsidies has always sparked explosive situations and protests from Lagos to Kano, Benin to Abuja fueled by the elite, who manipulate the grievances of citizens to achieve their objectives.
Yet, the government argument or those in support has always asserted that by redirecting the funds saved from subsidies into education and health, the masses will benefit more directly. The promise of reinvestment in sectors that have a tangible impact on citizens’ lives holds the potential for transformative change. However, concerns remain about the immediate consequences of subsidy removal, especially for low-income earners who constitute the majority of the country’s populace and will bear the brunt of increased fuel prices and a subsequent rise in the cost of goods and services.
In my analysis, the removal of fuel subsidies presents both challenges and opportunities for the Nigerians and the Nigerian government in the short and long run. It is a complex domestic policy that requires careful consideration and effective implementation, if failed the masses will bear the brunt, if it becomes successful, the government bears the credit. However, with the right approach, it can lead to long-term benefits and positive outcomes for the country.
To effectively navigate this transition, the Tinubu lead government must address these fears head-on and build trust among the people. Firstly, the government must be proactive, swift, and effective in handling its interventions in the form of palliatives for the poorest of the poor that is necessary to cushion the effects of rising food prices and the overall cost of living that will accompany this major domestic policy shift or else it will sink the administration. Additionally, the government should consider temporary measures, such as opening the borders to flood the market with affordable food items, while also engaging transport associations and owners to prevent exorbitant fare hikes that would burden the citizens beyond their means.
Beyond these immediate actions, a comprehensive and sustainable approach is essential to prevent sinking citizens further into poverty, instead, the government should roll out measures targeted toward bringing significant portions of the population out of poverty and improving their overall well-being. This includes enhancing social welfare initiatives, improving public service delivery, investing in healthcare, providing adequate wages, and implementing unbiased empowerment programs. By focusing on these areas, the government can foster entrepreneurship that will further reduce the effect of fuel subsidy removal and create a more equitable society.
Furthermore, the government must prioritize transparency and accountability in the management of resources. It should ensure that the funds saved from fuel subsidy removal do not end up in the pocket of individuals but rather are channeled effectively into sectors that directly benefit the masses. To achieve this, a clear policy mechanism by civil societies organization and organizations like BudgIT should be empowered to track and monitor the utilization of these funds, preventing any mismanagement or misappropriation.
To successfully navigate this transition, effective communication, and public enlightenment campaigns are paramount. The rationale behind fuel subsidy removal and the long-term benefits must be communicated to the public, managing expectations and reducing resistance. Collaboration with civil society organizations, labor unions, and other stakeholders is crucial in developing comprehensive social safety nets to protect the most vulnerable from potential negative impacts.
In the same vein, as part of efforts to revitalize the nation’s oil and gas industry, the government should immediately consider outright concession or privatization of the dormant refineries. This would pave the way for improvements, efficiency, optimization, and commercialization by private investors, bringing these refineries back to life. This government cannot afford to embark on another futile round of Turn Around Maintenance, which has consumed trillions of dollars without yielding results under previous administrations. By doing so, with the addition of the nation’s four refineries with capacities of 600,000, 150,000, 125,000, and 110,000 barrels per day, along with the largest single train Dangote and BUA refineries, fuel would become more accessible and affordable.
However, before reaching that stage, the government must effectively manage the consequences of fuel subsidy removal and alleviate the multidimensional impacts it would have on the country’s limited resources, as it could prove to be a challenging task. If the subsidy is removed, it will inevitably lead to a significant increase in the prices of goods and services across the country, disproportionately affecting low-income earners in terms of transportation costs and quality of life, that’s it become expedient to flood the market with affordable food items by opening the border temporarily.
Similarly, the new government must not pay lip service to diversifying the economy, by promoting and supporting sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, and technology, the government can create a more balanced and resilient economy. This will not only generate job opportunities but also reduce the vulnerability of the economy to fluctuations in oil prices, ultimately contributing to sustainable and inclusive growth. These are critical steps toward building a more resilient economy. This comprehensive approach will help lift a significant portion of the population out of poverty and improve their overall well-being.
One crucial lesson to be learned from past experiences is the importance of prioritizing social welfare initiatives. The government should draw inspiration from the Jakande administration, which focused on enhancing public service delivery in various sectors. Affordable and accessible housing options should be prioritized to address the housing needs of the less privileged, ensuring that they have a secure and dignified place to call home. Instead of constructing luxurious mansions in exclusive areas, the government should redirect its resources toward building affordable homes in areas where the poor can afford to reside.
Also, investments in the healthcare system are of paramount importance to provide quality and accessible healthcare services to all citizens, especially the underprivileged while adequate wages must be provided to workers across various sectors to ensure that they can afford a decent standard of living and support their families. Well-structured education is vital in equipping individuals with the necessary skills and knowledge for personal and professional growth, leading to improved socioeconomic conditions.
Lastly, effective regulation and oversight are necessary to ensure fair and accessible services for the citizens, particularly in sectors such as transportation. Monitoring mechanisms should be put in place to prevent exploitation and profiteering by private entities, ensuring that transport fares remain reasonable and affordable even without fuel subsidies. Investing in an efficient and affordable public transportation system will not only alleviate the financial burden on low-income earners but also contribute to decongesting the cities and reducing pollution.
In addition to these measures, transparency, and accountability in the management of resources are crucial to building trust and confidence among the citizens. The government must ensure that the funds saved from fuel subsidy removal are directed toward sectors that directly benefit the masses, such as education, healthcare, and infrastructure development.
In conclusion, the removal of fuel subsidies represents a paradigm shift in Nigeria’s development. By adopting a comprehensive and sustainable approach that prioritizes social welfare, economic diversification, transparency, and effective communication, the government can successfully navigate this transition. It is crucial to ensure that the benefits of economic growth reach all segments of the population, particularly the most vulnerable. With careful planning, implementation, and collaboration with stakeholders, Nigeria can forge a path toward a more equitable and prosperous future for its citizens.
