Vanessa 
Mr Babatunde Ogala, a former National Legal Adviser of the All Progressives Congress (APC), has strongly rejected claims that the Bola Tinubu administration is “weaponising poverty” in Nigeria. He described such narratives as misleading and far removed from the realities on the ground.
Ogala made this assertion on Saturday in Abuja during a dinner event hosted by Nigerians at home and in the diaspora. The dinner marked the mid-term of President Tinubu’s administration and focused on celebrating what organisers described as the government’s impactful strides. The theme of the gathering was “Two Years of Impact: Honouring Mr President and the Voices of Renewed Hope.”
‘Achievements Are Clear Across Key Sectors’
Ogala said the Tinubu-led government had made deliberate efforts to transform Nigeria through policy reforms and developmental projects. According to him, achievements in sectors such as education, healthcare, infrastructure, and the economy are visible and measurable.
“The achievements in education, health, economy, and infrastructure are visible to all Nigerians,” he stated confidently.
He explained that despite the challenges inherited from previous administrations, President Tinubu has remained committed to delivering on his promises. Ogala said the government had focused on structural reforms aimed at long-term national development rather than short-term popularity.
He also acknowledged the frustrations some Nigerians might feel due to the economic hardship but urged citizens to focus on the progress already made. According to him, change is a process that requires time, consistency, and collective sacrifice.
“No meaningful reform happens overnight. This administration is laying the foundation for sustainable development, not just temporary relief,” Ogala added.
Diaspora’s Role in Renewed Hope Agenda
Ogala commended Nigerians in the diaspora for their unwavering support, even when some of them have not benefitted from political appointments. He said their continued faith in the APC and the Tinubu administration reflects a shared commitment to national progress.
“We appreciate the Renewed Hope Diaspora for promoting the government, the party, and the country internationally,” he said.
He described their efforts in projecting a positive image of Nigeria as commendable and urged them to remain engaged in national discourse and development efforts.
Mr Ade Omole, who served as the chief host of the dinner and was formerly the Director of the APC Diaspora Campaign Council, said the gathering was more than a celebration. He emphasised that it was an honest evaluation of the administration’s performance halfway into its tenure.
“The Tinubu administration is not just counting years but weighing its impact. Progress has not only emerged but endured under this leadership,” Omole declared.
He encouraged Nigerians, both at home and abroad, to look beyond the noise of political opposition and focus on tangible results.
Tinubu Committed to an Inclusive Nigeria — Modibo
The event was attended by several APC leaders, members of support groups, political appointees, and representatives from state governments. The presence of top stakeholders underscored the importance of the occasion within the party’s political calendar.
Former Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Alhaji Aliyu Modibo, who represented Vice President Kashim Shettima, described President Tinubu’s commitment to inclusive governance as “unparalleled.” He noted that the administration is actively working to build a Nigeria where every interest and region is represented and protected.
“President Tinubu is leading with vision and determination. He is focused on building a Nigeria that works for everyone,” Modibo said.
