As President Bola Ahmed Tinubu crosses the 500-day mark in office, Nigerians are evaluating his performance with a mix of hope, skepticism, and scrutiny. From the controversial removal of fuel subsidy to his pro-business reforms and foreign policy moves, Tinubu’s early presidency has been nothing short of transformative—and turbulent.
RankBank reviews his administration’s key wins, losses, and what lies ahead as the nation grapples with economic pressures, security challenges, and governance expectations.
✅ The Wins
1. Subsidy Removal (Policy Boldness):
On his inauguration day, Tinubu declared an end to fuel subsidies—a move many previous administrations avoided. Despite the immediate economic strain, international bodies like the World Bank and IMF praised the decision as a long-term necessity.
2. Floating of the Naira:
The Central Bank, under Tinubu’s guidance, moved towards unifying the exchange rate. While the market remains volatile, this policy has been touted as a step towards restoring investor confidence and eliminating arbitrage.
3. International Engagement:
Tinubu’s foreign trips to France, India, and the U.S. yielded several investment pledges, including tech, oil and gas, and infrastructure projects. His participation at Davos and the G20 Summit has positioned Nigeria as a willing global partner.
4. Student Loan Scheme:
A student loan bill was signed into law to ease access to tertiary education—though implementation has faced delays.
5. Security Reshuffles:
The president overhauled top security positions and directed stronger inter-agency collaboration. There has been a slight drop in terrorism-related incidents in parts of the North.
❌ The Losses
1. Cost of Living Crisis:
The fallout from subsidy removal and forex liberalization led to skyrocketing prices. Inflation is at a 28-year high, with food inflation crossing 40%, according to NBS. Many Nigerians say they are worse off than a year ago.
2. Labour Unrest:
Widespread dissatisfaction has triggered repeated threats of nationwide strikes. Labour unions accuse the government of insensitivity and slow-paced palliative measures.
3. Inconsistent Communication:
Tinubu’s media team has often struggled to clarify policies, fueling misinformation and public distrust. Critics say there’s a disconnect between policy intent and public impact.
4. Delayed Appointments:
Key ministerial and board appointments were either delayed or marked by controversy, raising concerns about meritocracy and cronyism.
🔮 The Road Ahead
With local and global pressure mounting, the next 500 days will be pivotal for Tinubu’s presidency. RankBank analysts project the following focus areas:
- Economic Stabilization: Urgent need to curb inflation, stabilize the naira, and deliver on job creation.
- Social Protection: Successful rollout of palliatives and social welfare programs will determine public patience.
- Constitutional Reforms: Calls for restructuring, local government autonomy, and judicial independence are growing louder.
- 2027 Strategy Begins: Political analysts expect subtle positioning by key players ahead of the next election cycle.
📊 RankBank Rating:
- Leadership Boldness: 8/10
- Public Trust Level: 4/10
- Policy Execution: 6/10
- Economic Impact (so far): 5/10
- Overall RankBank Score (First 500 Days): 5.75/10
Conclusion:
President Tinubu’s first 500 days have been marked by hard-hitting reforms and growing economic discontent. While some applaud his willingness to take risks, others are still waiting to feel the promised “Renewed Hope.” The coming months will test his ability to deliver real impact beyond policy pronouncements.