Founder of The Kukah Centre, Bishop Mathew Kukah, has emphasized the need for better communication strategies from President Bola Tinubu’s Spokespersons, urging them to focus on effectively conveying the government’s message rather than resorting to insults or dismissing differing opinions.
Speaking during an interview on Channels Television’s Morning Brief on Tuesday, Kukah called on the administration to engage Nigerians constructively, especially during a time of widespread poverty and economic hardship.
He stressed that clear communication is essential for reassuring the public and fostering patience as the government works through its proposed reforms.
Bishop Kukah said, “What I can say is that this government must respond urgently to the issues of the day. They are issues of massive impoverishment in Nigeria. You can see the frustration on the faces of people, husbands, wives and children.
“I am convinced that this government has lofty ideas, but there is a total absence of a constructive strategy of engagement.”
He urged government officials to communicate effectively, stating, “This government needs communication strategies. The Nigerian government needs to convince Nigerians that there is light at the end of the tunnel, and encourage them to be a little patient.
“I see the conversation around local government autonomy, tax reform bills and others. But the government has to communicate with the people. So when people call themselves government spokespersons- it is not about insulting people, or thinking others can’t have different views. But their job is how the ideas of the government are communicated. We need to have an idea of the government reforms.
“We are happy to hear of the return of Port Harcourt Refinery. And the government needs to tell people what and what to expect at so-so time.”
Avoiding Blame Games
Bishop Kukah also cautioned against the government’s tendency to blame predecessors for current challenges.
“By now, Nigerians are tired of hearing the government saying “we didn’t think things were this bad”. They must have had an idea of what was going on before contesting. So, when they say we have $30 million in our reserves. They should know the money should increase before they leave office. People come into government to solve problems and not to compound them. And you must have round pegs in round holes.
“Government must not take the loyalty of people for granted. Winning elections isn’t about getting into power and then waiting to win another one,” he added.