Economic Reform and Security: Nigeria’s Path Depends on Process, Not Just Policy
Economic Reform and Security: Nigeria’s Path Depends on Process, Not Just Policy
By Engr. Cyprian Oyom Igban
President Bola Tinubu
Nigeria is at a defining crossroads in both its economic and security trajectory. The current reform agenda, encompassing budget realignment, fuel subsidy removal, foreign exchange liberalization, and fiscal consolidation has been framed as essential for macroeconomic stability and long-term growth. While the need for reform is unquestionable, the manner in which these reforms are implemented will determine whether they succeed or inadvertently deepen the challenges they aim to solve.
There is an old warning that one cannot ride on the devil’s wing to heaven. In policy terms, this reminds us that even necessary economic reforms can fail if the methods used to implement them erode public trust, weaken institutions, or deepen social hardship. The destination may be right, but the journey matters just as much.
“Good policies fail when poor process erodes public trust.”
Economic Reform and Social Pressure
Economic policy does not operate in isolation. Decisions on subsidies, exchange rates, taxes, and public spending affect the daily realities of citizens and businesses. When reforms are introduced abruptly, without clear sequencing, social cushioning, or consistent communication, they can generate economic shock rather than orderly adjustment.
In a country where inflation, unemployment, and declining purchasing power already weigh heavily on households, mismanaged reform carries serious social and security implications. Rising transport costs, food inflation, and increased operating expenses for small and medium enterprises have deepened public anxiety.
Economic Stress and National Insecurity
This erosion of economic stability directly impacts national security. Nigeria’s challenges—banditry, terrorism, kidnapping, and communal violence—are not driven by force alone. They are closely linked to unemployment, regional inequality, and perceptions of exclusion.
“Economic hardship is not just a social issue; it is a security risk.”
Security strategies that rely predominantly on enforcement, without addressing economic and governance drivers, may achieve short-term containment but rarely deliver lasting peace.
Why Process Integrity Matters
Process integrity is as important as policy substance. Reforms gain legitimacy when they are transparent, well-sequenced, and supported by social protection measures. Subsidy savings must be traceable and visibly reinvested in public goods such as healthcare, education, infrastructure, and security.
When policies appear opaque or unevenly applied, public confidence erodes—weakening both governance and national cohesion.
A Balanced Path Forward
A sustainable reform framework must align fiscal discipline with human security. Protecting vulnerable populations, supporting productive sectors, and strengthening institutions are essential to long-term stability.
“National renewal requires reforms that are bold, fair, and rooted in strong institutions.”
Nigeria’s progress will ultimately be judged not only by growth figures or deficit reduction, but by whether reforms restore trust, strengthen cohesion, and reduce insecurity over time.
*Engr Igban contributed this article from Abuja.
