Nigeria’s current policy direction must be recalibrated to achieve inclusive growth, national security, and long-term stability, says Prof. Chiwuike Uba, a development economist and Chairman of the Board at the ACUF Initiative for Policy and Governance.
In a statement released on Friday, Prof. Uba offered a compelling critique of Nigeria’s fiscal and development strategies, calling for urgent reforms across key sectors of the economy. He argued that the country cannot continue on its present trajectory without risking deeper socioeconomic dislocations.
“Recalibrating Nigeria’s policy priorities is no longer optional—it is an urgent imperative if we are to achieve inclusive growth and secure the future of the country,” Uba stated.
He highlighted the removal of fuel subsidies, exchange rate unification, worsening insecurity, and chronic underinvestment in human capital as among the most pressing issues requiring policy redirection.
While acknowledging the intent behind reforms such as the removal of subsidies and currency adjustments, Uba stressed that such moves must be accompanied by robust social protection mechanisms, sound governance, and targeted investments in health, education, and youth empowerment.
“Economic transformation will remain elusive unless policies are rooted in evidence and aligned with the realities faced by millions of Nigerians,” he said.
The development economist also proposed a new policy framework to guide decision-makers, one that focuses on inclusive development, local productivity, fiscal discipline, and equity.
The statement arrives at a time of national debate over the direction of the Nigerian economy and is being seen as a substantive contribution to the broader conversation on governance and reform.
Prof. Uba urged policymakers, civil society, and citizens alike to join efforts in charting a new path forward for Nigeria—one that balances macroeconomic stability with social justice and human capital development.
