In a candid and insightful interview with former President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Dr. Olisa Agbakoba (SAN), the esteemed legal expert has voiced grave concerns about the dire financial state of the Nigerian government, which he believes is crippling its ability to effectively fund palliatives during these challenging times.
Dr. Agbakoba minced no words as he addressed the dire fiscal situation of the Nigerian government, stating, “The real issue with palliative measures is that the government is broke.”
This unequivocal statement underscores the gravity of the financial crisis currently plaguing the nation.
With a keen understanding of the complex issues surrounding palliatives, Dr. Agbakoba offered a unique perspective on how the government should navigate this crisis.
He argued that relying solely on direct funding for palliatives might be an unsustainable approach given the nation’s economic constraints.
“I will rather prefer they use institutional and policy measures,” Agbakoba advised. This strategic shift, he believes, would not only ensure a more efficient allocation of resources but also create long-term solutions to the challenges Nigeria faces.
In the interview, the legal luminary didn’t stop at highlighting the problems; he also proposed a constructive way forward.
Dr. Agbakoba lauded the government’s move to remove Value Added Tax (VAT) on diesel imports as a step in the right direction.
However, he went a step further in recommending a holistic approach that addresses critical issues affecting the nation’s future.
“I applaud the removal of VAT on the importation of diesel,” he stated, “but I will recommend that the government look at free school fees and medicals for all Nigerian students at all levels for two years.”
This recommendation underscores the importance of investing in education and healthcare, two fundamental pillars for a thriving society.
Dr. Agbakoba’s vision is clear: by focusing on these areas, the government can secure the nation’s future while providing much-needed relief to its citizens.
As Nigeria grapples with financial hardships and the need to support its most vulnerable citizens, Dr. Olisa Agbakoba’s insight sheds light on a path forward.
While the challenges are immense, his emphasis on institutional and policy measures, combined with strategic investments in education and healthcare, could be the beacon of hope in these trying times.
The ball is now in the government’s court, and the decisions it makes in response to these challenges will significantly impact the lives and future of its people.
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