Rallying support: Imperative for political stakeholders to amplify President Tinubu’s policies, address grassroots concerns

By Dr Yusuf Aliu

In the complex landscape of Nigerian politics, leadership is often defined not just by the policies enacted but by how effectively these policies are communicated and perceived by the populace.

President Bola Tinubu’s administration has embarked on an ambitious journey to reshape Nigeria’s socio-economic fabric through a series of strategic policies aimed at long-term growth and development.

However, the success of these policies largely depends on the concerted efforts of political stakeholders and appointees to project their positive attributes and actively engage with the grassroots to mitigate negative perceptions.

*Projecting the positive attributes of Tinubu’s policies

President Bola Tinubu’s policies, which range from economic reforms to social welfare initiatives, have the potential to transform the nation’s fortunes. These policies are designed to address the deep-seated structural issues within the Nigerian economy, create jobs, and ensure a more equitable distribution of resources.

However, for these policies to achieve their intended impact, they must be communicated effectively to the public.

Political stakeholders and appointees have a critical role to play in this regard. They are the bridge between the government and the people, tasked with translating the administration’s vision into a narrative that resonates with the everyday experiences of Nigerians.

These stakeholders need to highlight the benefits of Tinubu’s policies, emphasizing how they will lead to economic stability, improved social services, and greater opportunities for all citizens.

For instance, the administration’s focus on improving infrastructure, boosting agriculture, and supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) should be underscored as key drivers of economic empowerment.

Political leaders must articulate how these initiatives will not only spur economic growth but also reduce unemployment and enhance the standard of living across the country.

*Engaging constituents at the grassroots

Effective policy communication must go beyond rhetoric; it requires engaging with constituents at the grassroots level, where the impact of government decisions is felt most acutely. The recent wave of protests against economic hardship underscores the urgency of this engagement. While these protests reflect genuine grievances, they also highlight a gap in communication between the government and the people.

Political stakeholders and appointees must actively engage with their constituents, particularly in rural and underserved communities, to explain the rationale behind Tinubu’s policies and address misconceptions. This grassroots engagement should be proactive and consistent, providing a platform for dialogue where citizens can express their concerns and receive clear, honest responses.

By listening to the people and addressing their fears, political leaders can begin to erode the negative narratives that have taken root in some quarters. This is particularly important in a diverse and complex nation like Nigeria, where misinformation can easily spread and fuel discontent. Through town hall meetings, community forums, and other forms of direct engagement, stakeholders can foster a sense of inclusion and participation in the policymaking process, thereby building trust and support for the administration’s agenda.

*Addressing areas of grievance

While it is important to project the positive aspects of Tinubu’s policies, it is equally crucial to acknowledge and address the areas of grievance that have been raised by recent hardship protesters.

The economic reforms initiated by the administration, though necessary for long-term stability, have led to short-term challenges for many Nigerians. Rising costs of living, fuel price hikes, and other immediate impacts have understandably caused anxiety and frustration among the populace.

The government’s response to these grievances must be swift and compassionate. Last week’s unveiling of 30 CNG buses for the masses, is one of such responses, among many others.

Political stakeholders should work closely with President Tinubu to ensure that palliative measures, such as targeted social assistance programs, are effectively implemented to alleviate the burden on the most vulnerable citizens. Furthermore, there should be a clear and transparent communication strategy to inform the public about these measures and how they can access them.

Beyond immediate relief, the government must also continue to refine its policies in response to feedback from the people. This iterative approach to governance, where policies are continuously evaluated and adjusted based on their impact, is essential for maintaining public trust and ensuring that the administration’s goals are met.

*The power of positive narratives

The narratives surrounding government policies are powerful tools that can shape public opinion and influence the success of an administration. In the case of President Tinubu, there is a need to shift the narrative from one of scepticism to one of optimism and hope.

This requires a collective effort from all political stakeholders and appointees to consistently promote the positive outcomes of the administration’s policies.

For instance, success stories from communities where Tinubu’s policies have made a tangible difference should be amplified and shared widely. Whether it’s a new infrastructure project that has improved local transportation or a business that has thrived due to government support, these stories can serve as evidence of the administration’s commitment to improving the lives of Nigerians.

Social media, traditional media, and community platforms should all be leveraged to disseminate these positive narratives. By doing so, political stakeholders can counteract the negative stories that often dominate public discourse and offer a more balanced view of the administration’s efforts.

*Conclusion: A call to action

The success of President Bola Tinubu’s policies hinges not only on their design and implementation but also on how they are perceived by the people. Political stakeholders and appointees must take up the mantle of responsibility to project the positive attributes of these policies and engage with constituents at the grassroots level.

By addressing the concerns raised by recent hardship protesters and fostering a narrative of hope and progress, they can help build a more united and prosperous Nigeria.

In this critical moment, the role of political stakeholders is not just to support the administration but to actively contribute to the national dialogue, ensuring that the true potential of Tinubu’s vision is realised and that all Nigerians can share in the benefits of a better future.

*Yusuf Aliu, PhD, (CMGR, FCMI) writes in from France, via: [email protected]