As Buhari Resumes…The Task Ahead of Him

Indications are that Acting President, Yemi Osinbajo’s good handling of the economy, affairs of the state in the absence of President Muhammadu Buhari may pile more pressure on Buhari to perform better as he resumes office.

This is even as there are hints that the President might return to the United Kingdom soon to continue his treatment.

The Economist magazine had advised President Muhammadu Buhari to leave the handling of the economy with Osinbajo.

“With Mr Buhari in London, the country’s economic stewardship has, improved a bit. Mr Osinbajo has allowed a modest devaluation and started on reforms aimed at boosting growth. This is already paying off.

“If his health recovers, Mr Buhari still has two years left in office. He should focus on doing what he does best: providing the leadership his troops need to defeat Boko Haram and the moral authority to clamp down on corruption.

“And, noting how much better the economy is doing without him trying to command it like a squad of soldiers, he should make good on a long-forgotten electoral pledge to leave economic policy to the market-friendly Mr Osinbajo,” the paper wrote.

While there had been speculation on his the state of his health, President Buhari on his return to the country after 49 days abroad dropped hints that he might be returning to the UK any moment from now to continue his treatment

“I am feeling much better now. There may, however, be need for further follow-up within some weeks,’’ he stated.

The president had been away from the country for close to two months battling a lingering prostrate flare-up and other chronic conditions — a persistent “internal organ” problem. His absence sparked  widespread speculations.

The presidential jet that conveyed Buhari landed at the Air Force Base in Kaduna at about 7.40am on Friday and he was conveyed in a helicopter to the Presidential Villa, Abuja where top government officials received him.

Those that received him include Zamfara State Governor, Abdulaziz Yari; Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Muhammad Bello; National Security Adviser, Babagana Monguno; Director-General of the Department of State Services, Lawal Daura; Chief of Staff to the President, Abba Kyari.

On arrival at the State House, he was received by the Acting President. In his address to the nation, he expressed gratitude to Nigerians for all the prayers and show of goodwill, pledging to rededicate himself to the service of the nation.

‘‘I am deeply grateful to all Nigerians, Muslims and Christians alike who have prayed and have continued to pray for my good health.

‘‘This is a testimony that in spite of the hardship being experienced, Nigerians support the government in its effort to tackle our country’s challenges,’’ he said.