Reforms May Hurt Now, But Will Stabilise Nigeria — Gbajabiamila

The Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila, has said the sweeping reforms being implemented by President Bola Tinubu may pose short-term challenges but are critical to securing Nigeria’s long-term stability.

Gbajabiamila spoke at the State House, Abuja, on Tuesday while receiving leaders of Working People United (WOPU), stressing that the administration’s policy direction is guided by the need to address deep-rooted structural issues in the country.

He explained that while the reforms may be difficult for many Nigerians in the immediate term, they represent necessary corrections to long-standing problems that had remained unresolved over the years.

According to him, effective leadership requires the courage to make decisions that may not be popular at first but are ultimately in the nation’s best interest.

Gbajabiamila noted that President Tinubu has demonstrated such resolve by pursuing policies that previous administrations had avoided, adding that the reforms are already reshaping national conversations.

He observed that discussions across the country, including among critics, have shifted from questioning the necessity of the reforms to focusing on their implementation.

The Chief of Staff likened the current phase to a transition that naturally comes with initial discomfort before yielding stability, expressing confidence that Nigeria is gradually moving towards a more balanced and sustainable path.

He also commended WOPU for adopting a constructive engagement approach, describing it as a model that prioritises collaboration over confrontation.

Gbajabiamila said the group’s recognition of ongoing government efforts reflects a growing civic space in which organised labour and civil society groups can contribute meaningfully to governance.

He assured the delegation of the Presidency’s willingness to partner with stakeholders to promote national unity, economic growth and inclusive development.

In his remarks, the Coordinator-General of WOPU, Comrade Williams Akporeha, said the organisation represents a broad coalition of Nigerian workers and stakeholders committed to national progress.

Akporeha stated that the group draws membership from various sectors, including artisans, professionals, entrepreneurs, farmers, transporters and youths, united by a shared goal of strengthening the economy.

He emphasised that collaboration between government and organised groups is essential to deepening democratic institutions and improving public trust.

The labour leader added that WOPU is mobilising nationwide support to sustain ongoing reforms and ensure the continuity of policies aimed at national development.

He noted that the organisation has structures across states, local government areas and wards, positioning it as a key grassroots platform for engagement and advocacy.