UK Government Lists Three Things Next Nigerian President Must Do

UK Government Lists Three Things Next Nigerian President Must Do

The United Kingdom Government has said the next president must make three key decisions in order to alleviate the suffering of Nigerians.

Speaking during an appearance on Channels Television’s The 2023 Verdict on Tuesday, the British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Catriona Laing, said the incoming president should remove fuel subsidy.

Laing said the next president should tackle the multiple exchange rates in order to secure Foreign Exchange (Forex) and embrace inclusiveness and ensure youths and women are prioritized.

She added that the next Nigerian leader must raise taxes because Nigeria has one of the lowest tax ratios in the world and also form a strong, inclusive team that will help tackle the country’s enormous challenges.

She said: “There are two or three key decisions that the incoming president must take. Number one is to remove the fuel subsidy, which is draining, but to do it in a way that protects poor people.

“Secondly is to tackle the multiple exchange rates, or else businesses just will not invest in this country if they can’t secure their foreign exchange. And three, raise taxes. You have one of the lowest tax ratios in the modern world. And without raising revenue, you can’t invest in public services. Public services, infrastructure, and education are key to the future.”

Laing also revealed that the UK is keenly watching the next elections and decried the rising levels of violence in the leadup to this month’s exercise.

She added: “There is a worrying round of insecurity and violence. In this pre-election period, the number of incidents is higher than in the last election,” she said, expressing concerns about safety after the elections.

“That’s one of my fears and worries, but assuming we can get through that, the future looks bright for Nigeria with the incoming president – whoever it is – tackling these challenges facing the country.

“The UK, like most of the international community, wants Nigeria to succeed.”