Vanessa 
The Woman Leader of the National Association of Nigerian Traders (NANT) in the FCT, Dr. (Mrs.) Rachael Adewumi, has restated her full support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s reform agenda. She emphasized the need for collective support to ensure these reforms deliver long-term benefits to Nigerians.
In her Easter message, Dr. Adewumi defended the removal of fuel subsidies. She said the decision, though painful at first, was necessary for the economy to recover. According to her, several economists had long warned against continuing the subsidy.
Fuel Subsidy Removal: A Needed Sacrifice
Dr. Adewumi acknowledged the hardship many Nigerians face due to subsidy removal. However, she said the move was important for long-term economic stability. She urged Nigerians to be patient and look at the broader impact on the economy.
“This is a difficult phase,” she said, “but these reforms will eventually benefit us all.”
Praise for Lawmakers and Call for Tax Reforms
Dr. Adewumi praised members of the National Assembly for their quality legislative work. She urged them to pass tax reform bills, which she believes would strengthen Nigeria’s economy.
“If done properly, tax reforms can increase revenue and improve services,” she said.
Wike’s Performance and Market Allocation Concerns
She commended FCT Minister, Chief Nyesom Wike, for his work on infrastructure. According to her, his projects follow the original Abuja master plan and have improved the capital’s road network.
Despite her praise, Dr. Adewumi raised concerns about market stall allocation. She said stalls often go to non-traders, who then rent them to real traders at high prices. This practice, she explained, increases the cost of goods.
She appealed to Wike to build more markets and give stalls directly to verified traders. “Fair allocation will reduce rent costs and help bring down prices,” she noted.
Easter Message: Ethics and Smart Business
Dr. Adewumi advised traders to avoid excessive pricing. She said fair prices would keep customers coming back and help increase sales.
“When you treat customers fairly, you sell more and earn more in the long run,” she said.
She also encouraged her members to celebrate Easter with reflection. She urged them to follow the law, spend wisely, and strengthen their faith.
Call for Inclusion in National Policies
In her final remarks, Dr. Adewumi urged the government to involve traders in policy-making. She described traders as the “heartbeat of the economy” and stressed their importance in national development.
“Policies should reflect the realities that traders face daily,” she said.
