By Usman Ishaq Shehu
PhD Candidate | Editor in Chief, JOComms
In a media landscape saturated with sensationalism and political drama, the stories that ought to matter the most often receive the least attention. A perfect example is the recent disclosure that the Federal Government, under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has disbursed a staggering ₦1.6 trillion to the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory for infrastructure and security support. This is not a projection, a promise, or a policy blueprint; it is a tangible disbursement of funds that directly impacts roads, schools, hospitals, and local security architecture across the country.
Yet, as monumental as this news is, it barely trended.
In any functioning democracy, such an announcement would dominate headlines and spark constructive debate about public accountability, grassroots impact, and federalism. But in Nigeria, where media virality is too often driven by controversy and clickbait, the positive and progressive initiatives of government struggle to gain traction. We are quick to amplify tension, slow to celebrate progress.
This ₦1.6 trillion disbursement is part of the Infrastructure Support Fund (ISF) approved by President Tinubu in July 2023, a post subsidy reform measure intended to cushion the economic impact on Nigerians while accelerating subnational development. The fact that this fund was drawn from non oil revenue savings makes it even more remarkable, an indication that the government is taking concrete steps to diversify the economy and reduce dependence on oil.
Unfortunately, many Nigerians remain unaware.
As a nation, we must interrogate our appetite for outrage over outcome and our obsession with negativity over nuance. What does it say about us when verifiable economic interventions that directly affect our lives are drowned out by sensational distractions? The media must do better. So must we as citizens and stakeholders.
President Tinubu’s administration is not without its challenges. But it is essential we highlight and hold onto facts, especially the ones that reflect fiscal discipline, federal responsibility, and strategic support for infrastructure. If ₦1.6 trillion in development financing doesn’t trend, what will?
We must demand accountability, yes, but we must also learn to recognize and amplify progress.
