Former Kaduna Central Senator Shehu Sani has asserted that President Bola Tinubu’s current unpopularity will only change when Nigerians begin experiencing tangible benefits from his administration’s economic reforms. The outspoken politician made these remarks during a recent appearance on Channels Television’s Politics Today, drawing comparisons between Tinubu’s tolerance for criticism and the defensive posture of previous administrations.
“President Tinubu is setting a new standard by permitting even his southwestern kinsmen to openly critique his government—a marked departure from past norms,” Sani observed. He recalled facing resistance from northern colleagues when highlighting security failures during Muhammadu Buhari’s presidency, noting how regional loyalty often stifled dissent under previous regimes.
The former lawmaker framed Tinubu’s reform agenda as a calculated gamble sacrificing short-term popularity for long-term national recovery. “True leadership sometimes requires implementing painful measures whose benefits only materialize later,” Sani explained. “The president understands this transitional unpopularity but must ensure these policies eventually deliver visible improvements in citizens’ lives.”
Sani’s analysis comes amid ongoing public discontent over economic hardships linked to the administration’s subsidy removal and currency reforms. While acknowledging the administration’s difficult choices, he emphasized that sustained political capital depends on demonstrable outcomes in job creation, security, and living standards.
The commentary reflects growing discourse about the Tinubu administration’s communication strategy and policy timelines, with supporters urging patience while opponents demand faster relief measures. As Nigeria navigates complex economic restructuring, Sani’s remarks underscore the delicate balance between implementing structural reforms and maintaining public trust during the transition period.
