The Human Cost of Economic Reforms: A Call for Compassionate Policies
By Jamilu Ja’afaru
In recent months, President Bola Tinubu’s economic reforms have sparked significant debate across the nation. While aimed at revitalizing the economy, these policies have, unfortunately, begun to disproportionately impact the most vulnerable segments of our society—the poor and the middle class. It is crucial to examine not just the numbers and statistics, but the human factor that underpins these economic decisions.
Economic policies can often appear beneficial on the surface, promising growth, stability, and prosperity. However, when the social implications are sidelined, the outcomes can be detrimental. As we have witnessed, the very reforms intended to uplift our economy are instead widening the gap between the affluent and those struggling to make ends meet.
The rising cost of living, driven by inflation and reduced subsidies, has left many families grappling with necessities. For the middle class, once a bastion of economic stability, the burden of rising prices has led to increased anxiety and a precarious existence. Meanwhile, the poorest among us face an uphill battle for survival, with limited access to resources and opportunities.
We must advocate for policies that balance economic growth with social equity. The government must prioritize the human element in its reform agenda, ensuring that the needs of all citizens are considered. This means engaging with communities, understanding their struggles, and crafting solutions that promote inclusivity rather than exclusion.
Economic success should not come at the expense of our most vulnerable citizens. A truly robust economy lifts everyone, not just a select few. It is time to rethink our approach and embrace policies that reflect compassion, understanding, and a commitment to the well-being of all Nigerians. Only then can we hope to achieve a fairer, more equitable society.
Jamilu PhD, a Social Development Specialist, writes from Gombe
