As the federal government and State governments battle with the process of ameliorating the pains of fuel subsidy removal, a respected scholar and Professor of Chemical Engineering from Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile Ife, Shuaib Ajiboye Osunleke, has proffered measures that thought could assist the authorities in dealing with the situation.
Residents of Osun State are expecting Governor Ademola Adeleke to take a cue from the federal government and provide them palliatives to cushion the effects of the subsidy removal.
In an exclusive interview with D2J team, Professor Osunleke proposed more impactful approach involving infrastructure enhancement to alleviate costs across sectors like transportation, healthcare and food.
Read the interview below:
D2J: Do you support Palliatives by the government as a way to reduce economic hardship?
Osunleke: Certainly, my perception of palliative measures slightly diverges from the conventional notion of cash distribution, as I find the practical effectiveness of distributing cash to be limited due to existing financial obligations. Instead, I propose a more impactful approach involving infrastructure enhancement to alleviate costs across sectors like transportation, healthcare, and food. This could entail supplying essential foodstuffs at a subsidized rate to local communities which has been carried out in some states, an initiative that could face challenges in implementation due to tendencies of hoarding or excessive claims arising from the absence of a comprehensive database. However, rectifying these behaviours would enable successful implementation. While considering government-led palliatives to mitigate economic struggles, it is vital to recognize the role our collective attitudes and actions play in their efficacy.
D2J: How can one cope with the emotional stress that often accompanies economic hardships?
Osunleke: The ultimate solution lies in maintaining unwavering faith in God. Rooted in our Islamic beliefs, we acknowledge that our sustenance originates from Him, and we communicate directly with Him as the sole provider, bringing us solace and tranquillity. In the context of our nation’s challenges, the absence of steadfast faith could have led to widespread chaos and emotional turmoil. Thus, placing our trust in God offers solace during economic adversity, enabling us to navigate emotional stress with resilience and hope. In addressing the question of coping with emotional stress during economic hardships, embracing a strong faith in God becomes a crucial source of comfort and strength.
D2J: What steps have you taken to improve your financial situation during these challenging times?
Osunleke: Amidst these challenging times, I’ve taken proactive steps to enhance my financial stability. Beyond my primary role, I’ve diversified my income through farming and utilizing my expertise as a marriage counsellor. I’ve established my own company, which serves as a side venture, allowing me to harness my skills and passion while generating additional income. This approach aligns with my enjoyment and professional abilities, enabling me to secure a more stable financial footing.
D2J: Can you provide an example of a time when you successfully navigated through a period of economic uncertainty?
Osunleke: Certainly, amidst the 8-month ASUU strike when salaries were suspended and persist to date, our resilience prevailed. Guided by my pragmatic approach, I embraced feasible actions within my capabilities. My family understood the circumstances, leading us to adopt a modest lifestyle. In this context, support from friends with surplus resources(Those who had farms shared their farm products with me), cooperative associations, and the Academic Staff Union facilitated our sustenance by giving out non-interest loans. Amid economic instability, our adaptability and collaborative spirit helped us navigate through the challenge. This experience exemplifies my ability to thrive during periods of economic uncertainty.
D2J: What advice do you have for students, youths and Nigerians at large?
Osunleke: In light of the current economic challenges faced by Nigerians, my recommendation is for individuals to diversify their sources of income beyond a single job, and to consider engaging in subsistence farming for family sustenance. Embracing a positive attitude towards collective efforts for improvement, demonstrating concern for other’s welfare, and avoiding cursing leaders are essential behavioural aspects. As advice to students, youths, and Nigerians as a whole, I suggest fostering a proactive mindset, exploring income diversification, and contributing to the community’s well-being while maintaining constructive and respectful engagement with leaders for the betterment of all.
D2J: What do you think the government should have done that they are yet to do?
Osunleke: To address our immediate challenges, the government should prioritize oil infrastructure over agricultural infrastructure and not mainly dependent on oil alone, given our energy needs and dependence on power for various functions. Additionally, they should focus on offering palliatives, improving road networks, and enhancing transportation by collaborating with NURTW, and monitoring facilities to prevent vandalism and misuse. Incorporating an OSISES-like program, akin to NYSC, can contribute significantly, requiring secondary school graduates to undergo comprehensive farming education before admission. The government should provide resources and a conducive environment to support increased production. Furthermore, acknowledging technological innovations and nurturing individual passions would encourage growth. The government should work more on oil infrastructure, facilitate farming education initiatives, and recognise technological advancements, thereby addressing our energy and agricultural needs more effectively.
D2J: Do you have any advice for the Tinubu-led administration?
Osunleke: I have quite a number of issues which I feel should be the priorities of the new government. In assessing the intentions of the Tinubu-led administration, it’s apparent that well-meaning initiatives for Nigeria’s progress demand a thorough evaluation of the country’s existing situation and developmental strategies. It’s plausible that unforeseen factors may have influenced the execution of agendas, urging a pragmatic approach. Addressing critical issues head-on remains essential for resolving ongoing challenges. Although the removal of subsidies could be deemed a solution, its impact has been perceived as benefiting a select group while burdening the less privileged. Consequently, a comprehensive framework should accompany subsidy removal, catering to those in need.
Regarding the importation of PMS, recognizing distinct vehicle requirements could alleviate the disproportionate economic effects and encourage cost reduction. Additionally, revisiting the educational sector’s funding and structure is imperative, mirroring successful global models where affordable and skill-centred education starts from primary and secondary levels. Acknowledging the diverse pathways to success, an emphasis on technical education is vital, along with enhancing accessibility to affordable healthcare and education for all. Continued prayers for effective governance and progress underline our aspirations for a better nation under the Tinubu-led administration.
It is also important that there should be commensurate increment in salaries of all goverment workers which will spill over effect on business transactions, provision of infrastructure like other means of transportation like mono rails in our metropolis that will drive down cost of transportation, provide agro infrastructure like availability of high-breed seeds of fruits, nuts and vegetables so that there will be high degree of self sufficiency.
