- Laolu Akande urged President Tinubu to surpass his predecessors, emphasizing the need for a legacy of trust and transformation in Nigeria
- Akande criticized Tinubu’s indifference to corruption, highlighting its negative impact on society and urging deeper reforms to address systemic issues
Laolu Akande, former presidential aide, has urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to outperform his predecessors and establish a legacy of trust and transformation for Nigerians.
Speaking on Thursday at Channels TV’s Sunrise Daily, Akande stressed the president’s duty to excel.
“Tinubu must aim to be the best president Nigeria has ever had. Anything less is a disservice to his pedigree,” he said.
Highlighting Tinubu’s achievements as Lagos State governor and his political experience, Akande emphasized the high expectations surrounding his administration.
He criticized Tinubu’s perceived indifference to corruption, noting its pervasive impact on Nigerian society.
“The president must recognize corruption’s corrosive effect. It’s not just financial—it affects our morals and identity as a people,” Akande stated.
While commending initiatives like providing student loans, he argued that deeper reforms are needed to address systemic issues.
Akande also pointed out Tinubu’s failure to connect with Nigerians personally, urging him to show more empathy and engagement.
“He must speak as someone who understands the struggles of ordinary Nigerians, not just as a confident politician,” Akande added.
Looking ahead to 2024, Akande encouraged Nigerians to adopt a proactive mindset, moving beyond reliance on political leaders for change.
“Our salvation won’t come from the political process. We must compel change through civic involvement and public discourse,” he said.
Akande called for greater public participation in governance, urging citizens to take conversations from private spaces to public platforms.
He likened the media to a “village meeting place,” emphasizing its role in shaping national aspirations and demanding accountability.
“We need to raise expectations and insist on the Nigeria we deserve. Accepting less should no longer be an option,” he remarked.
Addressing criticisms of government leadership being equated with “demarketing” Nigeria, Akande urged discernment.
“Criticizing leaders isn’t criticizing Nigeria. These leaders are temporary, while the country endures,” he explained.
He concluded by praising the resilience of Nigerians and expressing optimism about the nation’s future.
“Stories of patriotic Nigerians, like Lookman Ademola proudly representing the country abroad, inspire hope. Nigeria will be great,” Akande said.
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