Reflection On The Present Administration By Dr Kenny Odugbemi.
The current administration inherited a nation in shambles from the previous administration, which was marked by cluelessness, lack of managerial capacity, competence, and character. The previous administration's legacy includes insurgency, financial recklessness, war, hunger, deprivation, economic woes, and a 45% infrastructural developmental improvement without assurance of quality. This led to a citizenry plagued by distrust, disunity, and disappointment.
The current administration pledged continuity and inheritance of assets and liabilities but lacked a clear understanding of the fundamentals and root causes of the problems. They started with forceful and audacious policy declarations that turned out to be repulsive and reactionary. In just one year, they accrued a debt of over N97.34trn, with a mystery index worse than the previous administration.
The administration has the highest headcount of political appointees, exceeding 60%, who lack competence and capacity. This has led to the misappropriation of the budget, misalignment between fiscal and monetary policies, and misguided capital expenditures that fail to address critical needs. As a result, huge liquidity circulates among a select few.
The Central Bank mops up liquidity, while the Federal Government pumps it back through the ill-fated fuel subsidy. Instead of working towards a two-step forward approach, the administration has failed to deliver on its promise of renewed hope, which remains elusive and evasive.
Suggested Solution:
Phase 1: Restoration (Short-term)
- Root cause analysis
- Reassurance
- Implement outcome
Phase 2: Renew (Medium-term)
- Formulate a paradigm shift from the norm
- Implement structural reforms
- Foster inclusive economic growth
Phase 3: Rebuild (Long-term)
- Consolidate gains
- Strengthen institutions
- Ensure sustainable development
All phases must have separate strategies with the same balanced scorecard, focusing on economic recovery, social justice, and institutional reform.
Evaluate and rating of the PBAT administration as follows:
International Diplomacy: 2/10
- The administration's approach to international diplomacy appears to be reactive and inconsistent, with a focus on propaganda rather than substantive engagement.
- The country's global reputation and relationships with other nations seem to have deteriorated.
Economy: 1/10
- The administration's economic policies have led to a significant increase in debt, inflation, and poverty.
- The mismanagement of the fuel subsidy and lack of diversification have exacerbated economic woes.
- The country's economic growth and development appear to be stagnant.
Security: 3/10
- The administration's approach to security has been largely ineffective, with a focus on military force rather than addressing root causes of insecurity.
- Terrorism and banditry continue to pose significant threats to citizens' lives and property.
Wellbeing of Citizens: 1/10
- The administration's policies have led to increased poverty, hunger, and deprivation among citizens.
- The country's social and economic infrastructure appears to be in disarray, with a lack of access to basic services like healthcare and education.
- The administration's propaganda and rhetoric have failed to address the concerns and needs of citizens.
Overall Rating: 1.5/10
This administration's performance has been largely disappointing, with a lack of effective leadership, poor policy decisions, and a disconnection from the needs and concerns of citizens. Urgent reforms and a change in approach are necessary to address the country's economic, security, and social challenges.