Nigeria witnessed pivotal events, including a national minimum wage increase, widespread protests against economic reforms, and other key incidents that shaped the nation’s socio-economic and political landscape.
Below are some of the events that shaped Nigeria in 2024:
National Minimum Wage Increase to ₦70,000
The Federal Government increased the national minimum wage from ₦30,000 to ₦70,000. The move aimed at cushioning the effects of inflation and economic hardship following subsidy removal and currency devaluation. It was a significant step for workers, but concerns remain over its implementation and the financial burden on state governments.
Nationwide Hunger Protest
Tagged, #EndBadGovernanceInNigeria.The nationwide hunger protests reflected Nigerians’ frustration over soaring food prices and the rising cost of living, triggered by fuel subsidy removal, currency devaluation, and inflation. The economic reforms intended to stabilize the economy instead deepened food insecurity and poverty, a situation President Bola Ahmed Tinubu described as temporary but necessary.
Adoption of New National Anthem
Nigeria adopted a new national anthem, “Nigeria, We Hail Thee,” replacing “Arise, O Compatriots,” which had been in use since 1978. The change followed a hastily passed bill approved by both chambers of the National Assembly and signed into law by President Bola Tinubu, sparking criticism over the lack of public input. The new anthem, originally introduced in 1960 at independence but later replaced by the military, takes immediate effect.
Suspension of Beta Edu as Minister
President Bola Tinubu suspended Beta Edu as Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation following allegations of mismanagement and inefficiency in handling critical welfare programs. Following this, all programs managed by the National Social Investment Programme Agency (NSIPA)were also suspended
UAE Visa Lift
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) lifted its visa ban on Nigerians following diplomatic negotiations. This development restored travel access for Nigerian citizens to the UAE, signaling improved relations between the two nations and fostering opportunities for trade, tourism, and bilateral cooperation.
Cabinet Reshuffle
President Bola Tinubu dismissed several ministers from his cabinet and appointed new ones to streamline governance and address performance concerns. The reshuffle aimed to improve the efficiency of key government sectors and ensure better service delivery to the public.
Tax Reform Bill
A Tax Reform Bill aimed at overhauling the nation’s tax system to improve revenue generation and simplify compliance. was passed. However, it generated mixed reactions with some praising its potential to boost economic stability, while others criticized its perceived burden on small businesses and low-income earners.
Local Government Autonomy
The Supreme Court reserved judgment on a case between the federal and state governments regarding full autonomy for local governments, a significant step in addressing governance and decentralization issues.
Dangote Refinery Commenced Operations
The highly anticipated Dangote Refinery began operations in 2024, marking a significant step toward Nigeria’s self-sufficiency in petroleum refining and reducing reliance on fuel imports. The refinery’s commencement followed the granting of exclusive operational rights by the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC).
RN
