Nigeria at the Crossroads: Coalition politics, national unity, and the prospect of national renewal, by Hassan Ahmad
Nigeria today stands at a defining crossroads. We are faced with not just political uncertainties, but existential questions about who we are as a nation, where we are headed, and what kind of leadership we truly deserve. From the corridors of power in Abuja to the remotest villages in Zamfara, the atmosphere is filled with anxiety, economic despair, insecurity, and widespread disillusionment.
Yet, amidst the gloom, a fresh wind appears to be blowing across our political landscape.
The emerging coalition conversations, fueled by a shared national concern, offer a glimmer of hope. For once, political actors across party lines are beginning to speak the language of unity, inclusion, and responsibility. These are no longer ordinary political alignments for elections alone—they are, in some quarters, being seen as a movement for national renewal, justice, and rebalancing of priorities.
In a rare moment of reflection, the Federal Government under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has initiated a committee to look into the possibility of reintroducing fuel subsidy—a clear sign that this administration is listening, adjusting, and responding to the cries of the people. The hardship unleashed by the subsidy removal, combined with the floating of the naira, triggered an inflationary spiral that has made life almost unbearable for millions. The willingness to reconsider policy, even partially, must be seen as a mark of humility and leadership—not weakness.
This responsive posture creates the right atmosphere for inclusive political dialogue. The growing coalition movement—comprised of serving politicians, elder statesmen, technocrats, and former public officers—must rise beyond individual ambitions and narrow ethnic interests to embrace the bigger picture: a united, just, and equitable Nigeria.
The time has come for a coalition of responsibility, not merely a coalition of political rescue. The failures of the past are well known. Many of these same actors have had the privilege to serve in high office—some with mixed records. But Nigerians are also a forgiving people, as long as genuine remorse, national repentance, and clear vision are evident.
This coalition must not repeat the arrogance and disconnect of the past. Instead, it must redefine the social contract and bridge the growing gap between government and the governed.
What the Nigerian people are yearning for is not just economic recovery—but emotional connection, ethical leadership, and empathetic governance.
The truth is that the pain being experienced across households is real: food prices have tripled, transport is unaffordable, and basic healthcare is out of reach for millions. Yet, the people are still willing to believe—if only they see a credible path forward.
This is where the new coalition must act with integrity and vision. It must not be another elite compact for the rotation of power. It must be a platform for honest dialogue, national restructuring, regional development, and youth inclusion. For too long, Nigeria has operated on a dysfunctional elite consensus—this is the time to forge a popular national consensus.
President Tinubu’s administration deserves credit for initiating some bold economic reforms. But those reforms must be balanced with realistic timelines, strong social protection programs, and targeted interventions to protect the most vulnerable.
The openness to review subsidy policies should now be matched with policies that stabilise food prices, energise agriculture, and stimulate micro-enterprises. The masses cannot be left behind in the name of reform.
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Let it be known that the path to 2027 must not be built on manipulation or desperation. If the emerging coalition truly wants to earn the trust of Nigerians, it must embody the virtues of humility, transparency, and service. Nigeria is bleeding from all angles: banditry in the Northwest, terrorism in the Northeast, agitation in the Southeast, oil sabotage in the Niger Delta, and moral decay in many institutions. This is not the time for politics as usual. This is the time for healing.
The economy, too, is in dire straits. The naira is volatile, inflation is rising, and youth unemployment is alarming. Our universities are underfunded, and our hospitals are struggling. But even in this storm, there is a chance to rebuild—if we get leadership right. This coalition can become the forum where a new national bargain is struck: one based on equity, productivity, and merit.
To the current administration, this is the moment to rise beyond party lines. A listening government is a strong government. President Tinubu still has the opportunity to cement a legacy of statesmanship by embracing inclusive governance, supporting national dialogue, and empowering honest coalitions. The rethinking of fuel subsidy is a good start—now, match it with compassion, communication, and decisive action.
To those forming or joining the coalition, remember: the Nigerian people are watching. They are no longer interested in beautiful speeches or empty promises. They want results, sincerity, and delivery. If your goal is power for power’s sake, history will judge you harshly. But if your ambition is anchored in national rebirth, you will find allies among the youth, the workers, the clergy, the traditional institutions, and the suffering majority.
Let us stop pretending we can fix Nigeria with the same formula that failed us. Let us rise to a higher calling—beyond tribe, beyond religion, beyond party. Let this coalition become a symbol of national renewal, not just another political calculation.
Nigeria is hurting. But Nigeria is also hoping. Let this be the moment we turn a new page—and begin the journey toward the country we all deserve.
Hassan Ahmad writes from Wuse Zone 6, Abuja.
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