Independence Day Broadcast: NECA Tasks Tinubu on Definitive Implementation Timeline

Dike Onwuamaeze

The Nigeria Employers’ Consultative Association (NECA) has reacted to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Independence Day address to the nation with a call on the government to be more definitive on its pronouncements and also match its announcement of palliatives with expedite actions and timelines for implementation. 

Speaking in Lagos, the Director-General of NECA, Mr. Adewale-Smatt Oyerinde, stated that “while we commend the president’s commitment to fix the economy and alleviate the suffering of Nigerians and organised businesses, more definitive, broader interventions with timelines for implementation will also be very important. The President’s address was full of intent, without definitive timelines for implementation of the laudable plans.”

Commenting on the presidential address, Oyerinde noted that, “the provision of CNG buses and further increase of the social safety nets investments to cover another 15 million households are commendable.”

He however pointed out that all Nigerians, including organised businesses were affected by the fuel subsidy removal, hence the need for the wage award which has since been extended to all workers.

“Having mentioned the procurement of the CNG buses in his August address to the nation, we had expected a more definitive and time-bound pronouncement on when the buses will be procured and put to use.

“It is important that the procurement should be accelerated to aid the populace and reduce transportation pressures.”

He also highlighted that, “the need for wider consultation and private sector engagement cannot be over-emphasised. While government continues to roll out its plans to ameliorate the challenges on the populace, more definite efforts with realistic time-lines should be made to revive the economy and the organised private sector being the engine of national development.

“It is not enough for the federal government to dole out money in the name of palliatives to state governments, a more innovative, effective and traceable distribution and monitoring mechanisms should also be put in place to measure the impact and efficiency of the implemented schemes.”