Sam Amadi says fuel subsidy alone won’t decide Nigeria’s 2027 economic leadership
Sam Amadi, Director of the Abuja School of Social and Political Thoughts, told Arise Television's Morning Show on Wednesday that the debate over fuel subsidy removal or restoration alone will not determine who can manage Nigeria's economy better in the 2027 elections. He acknowledged that, unlike in 2023, the subsidy issue is poised to become a major topic in the upcoming contest, especially as ADC presidential candidate Atiku Abubakar has pledged to reinstate the subsidy if elected.
Amadi explained that while economists argue subsidies are inefficient, they can also serve as fiscal tools to stimulate production and consumption, though in Nigeria's context they often prove counterproductive. He noted that all candidates in the last election advocated subsidy removal but with different nuances—Atiku and Peter Obi each had distinct approaches.
The subsidy remains a political 'heartburn' because of widespread suffering, high living costs, and public sentiment, making it attractive for politicians who once backed removal to reverse their stance. Amadi stressed that leaders must respond to constituencies, adjust their positions, and assess the political landscape.
He urged admitting both that subsidies have not proven effective and that they can be beneficial if properly designed, adding that the manner of removal—coupled with currency devaluation—was poorly planned and may have worsened economic pressures. Ultimately, Nigerians will judge politicians on their ability to curb corruption regardless of subsidy policy, and the issue's impact will hinge on how it is framed: as a sign of competence in cost-control and welfare enhancement, or merely as a technical policy tool.