Tinubu's Reform Drive Wins UK Praise, Spurs Domestic Debate

The outgoing British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Richard Montgomery, praised President Bola Tinubu’s fiscal and monetary reforms, saying they set the country on a stronger long‑term economic footing despite short‑term pain from devaluation and inflation. Montgomery highlighted the partnership with the Nigeria Revenue Service and forecast a rise in growth from about 4 % to 7 %.

The administration’s power‑sector overhaul was showcased with the launch of the Presidential Metering Initiative, a training programme that will produce 5,000 smart‑meter installers to accelerate deployment of seven million meters nationwide. President Tinubu linked the reforms to job creation and improved electricity billing.

Tinubu also touted achievements in security and infrastructure, citing the release of abducted schoolchildren and the construction of major highways such as the Lagos‑Calabar coastal road and Abuja‑Kaduna corridor.

Domestic figures weighed in on the reforms: former Lagos governor Babatunde Fashola said he prefers to advise the president privately rather than criticize on television and ruled out any presidential bid; rapper‑activist Falz denied endorsing any politician and criticised Tinubu’s record on inflation, poverty and insecurity. These comments reflect ongoing public discussion of the Tinubu administration’s policies as the country heads toward the 2027 elections.