Former Ekiti State Governor, Kayode Fayemi, has expressed his support for President Bola Tinubu’s policies but emphasized that good intentions are insufficient for effective leadership.
Speaking on Channels Television’s Politics Today programme on Thursday, Fayemi, a close ally of the president and a key member of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), acknowledged the president’s boldness in taking on difficult decisions.
However, he stressed that those decisions must be paired with a solid policy framework and effective leadership to achieve the desired change for Nigeria.
Fayemi, referring to Tinubu as an “elder brother,” stated, “He (Tinubu) is well-meaning, but well-meaning is not enough in leadership; intentionality is critical to success.”
He further elaborated that while the president has taken steps that previous leaders have hesitated to take, the effectiveness of these actions hinges on a structured approach.
“President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has done many good things, we all must acknowledge that,” Fayemi said. “He’s been bold to take on some of the most difficult decisions that previous leaders have been reluctant to take on.”
The former governor highlighted some of Tinubu’s significant moves, including the removal of fuel subsidies, the convergence of the foreign exchange (FX) window, and the push for tax reforms aimed at increasing federal revenue.
Despite these steps, Fayemi noted the continuing challenges, particularly the ongoing cost of living crisis and the complex issues around insecurity and insurgency.
“There are elements of good in these policies, but they need to come together effectively,” Fayemi added. “This is where an effective policy framework needs to go side by side with leadership acumen to get a change of narrative in the country.”
Fayemi concluded that while the president’s policies are commendable, the administration must align these efforts with a comprehensive and intentional approach to bring about lasting change for Nigerians.