By Erewunmi Peace

Former Governor of Niger State, Dr. Mu’azu Babangida Aliyu, has stated that President Bola Tinubu’s administration is making progress in governance but struggling with poor communication and public engagement, especially with its northern supporters.

Speaking on The Morning Show on Arise Television following a stakeholders’ forum organized by the Sir Ahmadu Bello Memorial Foundation (SABMF) in Kaduna, Aliyu said the government’s policies are largely on track but lack proper explanation and visibility, creating frustration among citizens.

“Let the people understand what is happening on the ground. If by what we say that 63/64 percent of the vote came from the North, it is only logical that the North will be expecting so much from the government,” he said.

“From what we have seen so far, the government is doing well, but they do not know how to communicate very well.”

Aliyu’s remarks come amid growing criticism from sections of northern Nigeria who believe the region has not been adequately represented in President Tinubu’s administration, despite giving him significant electoral support during the 2023 elections.

Northern Expectations, National Perceptions

Babangida Aliyu, who now chairs the Sir Ahmadu Bello Memorial Foundation, warned that continued communication failure could lead to misinterpretation of government policies, especially in regions that feel politically shortchanged.

He advised the administration to invest in strategic public communication, particularly by highlighting its progress in infrastructure, economic reform, and security operations.

“This is not just about press releases. Government must explain why certain policies are painful now, and how they will help the people later,” he added.

Reactions & Political Implications

Aliyu’s comments sparked debate online, with supporters and critics of the administration weighing in. Some agreed that Tinubu’s economic reforms—though promising—have suffered from poor messaging and lack of public trust. Others accused northern elites of trying to exert undue influence over national policies.

Meanwhile, pro-government voices have called for a media reorientation campaign to bridge the information gap and ensure citizens understand ongoing economic strategies, fuel subsidy removal, and infrastructure initiatives.

Babangida Aliyu’s statement serves as a wake-up call for the Tinubu administration to strengthen public communication channels. As governance efforts continue, so must transparency, clarity, and consistent engagement with the Nigerian people—north, south, east, and west.