Governor Charles Soludo of Anambra State has declared that Nigeria is undergoing a significant and transformative shift following President Bola Tinubu’s decision to eliminate subsidies.
Speaking at the 13th Convocation Lecture at Veritas University in Abuja on Thursday, Soludo presented a discourse titled ‘Let Us Make a New Deal for Nigeria,’ which examined strategies to tackle the nation’s pressing challenges.
The governor highlighted the necessity of moving away from subsidies that primarily benefited the urban elite, advocating for a more inclusive social contract that generates opportunities for everyone.
He pointed out that Nigeria has concluded its reliance on detrimental subsidies for fuel, foreign exchange, and electricity.
Reflecting on his own educational journey, Soludo recounted his experience of receiving free, quality education from primary through university levels, along with subsidized meals in public universities, until the sustainability of government funding became an issue.
He acknowledged that, despite various challenges, military regimes had made significant investments in education during Nigeria’s early oil wealth.
Urging Nigerians to develop a pragmatic new framework for the country, Soludo called for an emergency national infrastructure initiative akin to the U.S. Marshall Plan, which was instrumental in rebuilding Europe post-World War II.
He encouraged Nigerian leaders to take cues from the Marshall Plan to facilitate public works projects, implement financial reforms, and enact regulatory changes that could revolutionize the nation.
The governor also pointed to positive developments, including the introduction of minimum wage legislation, a draft tax reform bill, and forthcoming cash transfer programs.
He emphasized the importance of historic collaboration between federal and state governments to ensure the rapid rollout of these reforms.
Addressing the graduating students, Soludo urged them to play an active role in shaping the future of the country.
“We have entered a phase that demands prudent navigation,” he remarked.
“The future you desire lies in your hands. Only those who plan can steer their destinies. While Nigeria may not have provided you with much, you are called upon to contribute more than you have received,” Soludo concluded.
