Buhari’s Former Aide Urges Tinubu Government to Revise IMF and World Bank Policies for the People’s Benefit.
A former Chief of Staff to ex-President Muhammadu Buhari, Professor Ibrahim Gambari, has called on the Nigerian government under President Bola Tinubu to reconsider and adjust policies that are not in the best interest of the people. Speaking on Inside Sources with Laolu Akande, a socio-political programme on Channels Television, Gambari stressed the importance of aligning government policies with the welfare of the citizens rather than solely adhering to recommendations from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and World Bank.
Gambari warned that while Nigeria’s citizens have demonstrated remarkable patience in the face of hardship, there is a risk of reaching a breaking point. He cited other countries where minor economic grievances, such as a rise in the price of bread, led to significant civil unrest, including the overthrow of governments. Gambari stressed that Nigeria, while part of the international community, must prioritise its own people when implementing policies.
“Ultimately, what’s the value of policies that the people do not support?” Gambari remarked, asserting that while the IMF and World Bank are valued development partners, the Nigerian government must retain the freedom to adjust or abandon policies that are not benefiting the nation.
He further explained, “We are lucky because Nigerians don’t demand very much. That’s why they go about their business. But there may be a breaking point. We don’t want to wait until a revolution takes over before we take action.”
The diplomat, who has vast experience in international relations, including a 13-year tenure with the United Nations, pointed out that economic decisions should be made based on the country’s unique needs rather than external pressures. “Yes, we are part of the IMF and World Bank because we are part of the international system, but we must be able to adjust their advice to our own needs. Our primary responsibility is to Nigeria,” he stated.
Gambari’s comments come amid the recent fuel subsidy removal and the floating of the naira by the Tinubu government, both of which have contributed to increased living costs in the country. He emphasised that Nigeria’s government must take control of its economic destiny and prioritise peace and security to foster development.
“Any president of Nigeria must make security number one because there can be no development without peace,” Gambari concluded, urging leaders to create a framework that harnesses the potential of Nigeria’s citizens to master their own economic affairs.
His call to action highlights the ongoing debate about balancing international financial advice with national interests and the need for policies that support the well-being of Nigerians.
