President Tinubu's N90 Billion Hajj Operations: A Misguided Policy Thrust

 

By Wilson Macaulay

Without mincing words , generality of Nigerians are Passing through  economic hardship, We are  facing  a pivotal decision-making moment that demands prudent and impactful policy choices.

 The recent revelation by Vice President Shettima that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu  spent N90 billion to subsidize Hajj operations has sparked intense debate and scrutiny. While the spiritual and cultural significance of Hajj is undisputed, the allocation of such a substantial amount of public funds towards this endeavor, amidst the nation's pressing economic challenges, calls for a critical evaluation of priorities.

ECONOMIC CONTEXT AND Challenges

Nigeria, often described as a "sleeping giant" due to its vast potential yet underutilized resources, is grappling with severe economic difficulties. The nation is akin to a patient in an intensive care unit, where every decision must be meticulously evaluated for its potential to enhance recovery and growth. Key sectors such as energy, agriculture, and education are in dire need of investment to stimulate economic development, create jobs, and improve living standards.

The allocation of N90 billion towards Hajj operations, in this context, appears to be a glaring misstep. This amount could significantly impact the nation's economic landscape if redirected towards more critical areas. 

For instance, the same N90 billion could fund the establishment of nine modular refineries in the nine states of the Niger Delta, a move that would not only boost Nigeria's refining capacity but also create approximately 900,000 jobs. This approach would help mitigate the country's heavy reliance on imported petroleum products, ultimately strengthening the economy.

The Case for Modular Refineries

Investing in modular refineries presents a compelling argument. These refineries are smaller-scale, more flexible, and quicker to construct compared to traditional refineries. They can be strategically located to serve local markets, thus reducing transportation costs and improving supply chain efficiency. By enhancing Nigeria's ability to refine its own crude oil into products like Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), Automotive Gas Oil (AGO), and Dual Purpose Kerosene (DPK), the country could achieve greater energy security and economic stability.

Moreover, the job creation potential is immense. Employing 900,000 youths in the Niger Delta would have a ripple effect on local economies, uplifting families and communities. This workforce would not only gain employment but also acquire skills and expertise that could be leveraged in other sectors, fostering a more diversified and resilient economy.

LESSON FROM GLOBAL Leaders

The wisdom of investing in critical economic sectors is not lost on global leaders. Russian President Vladimir Putin's observations about Nigeria's policy priorities underscore this point. He noted that despite Nigeria's vast arable land capable of feeding Europe, the country prioritizes compulsory English language education over making agriculture a mandatory part of the curriculum. This misplaced prioritization, according to Putin, is a policy sumersault  that exacerbates food insecurity and economic vulnerability.

Nigeria's focus should indeed be on sectors that guarantee long-term sustainability and growth. Agriculture, energy, education, and industrial development must take precedence over state-sponsored pilgrimages. Ensuring food security, stable energy supply, and a well-educated populace will lay the groundwork for a thriving economy.

REASSESSING PRIORITIES

While Hajj holds immense religious and cultural importance, it should not overshadow the need for economic prudence and strategic investment. In terms of national priorities, the focus must first be on addressing fundamental needs such as energy supply, refinery capacity, agricultural development, and education. These sectors are the bedrock of any robust economy and must be fully developed before considering expenditures on non-essential state sponsorships, like

the blunder of N 90 billion which President Tinubu have misappropiated.

 State sponsorship of pilgrimages, though beneficial for individual spiritual fulfillment, should not be an annual event funded by taxpayers, especially when the nation is struggling with critical economic issues. Instead, it should be a personal responsibility for those who can afford it, allowing government resources to be channeled into more impactful areas.

Conclusion

President Tinubu's decision to allocate N90 billion to subsidize Hajj operations is a misguided policy thrust that overlooks Nigeria's urgent economic needs. Redirecting such funds towards building modular refineries, boosting agricultural productivity, enhancing education, and securing energy supply would have  yielded far greater benefits for the nation. It is germane and  imperative that FG of  Nigeria should  reassess  its priorities to ensure sustainable growth and development. Only by making wise and strategic investments can our dear country Nigeria  hope to overcome its current challenges and realize its full potential.

Wilson Macaulay is a Daily lndeprndent Newspaper Corresspondent, based in Warri