Rotimi Amaechi, former governor of Rivers state and
ex-minister of transportation, says he supports the removal of petrol subsidy
but insists that the savings must be redirected to benefit Nigerians.
Amaechi spoke on Friday during an interview on Channels
Television’s Morning Brief programme, where he argued that funds previously
spent on subsidy should be invested in critical sectors such as education and
healthcare.
“I agree with the removal of oil subsidy. What I’m saying is
that the savings should be given back to Nigerians,” he said.
The former minister alleged that corruption had undermined
the subsidy regime, noting that funds meant for the scheme were often
mismanaged.
“Nigerian MDAs are stealing the money in the name of
subsidy. So why not we get the money and hand it back to Nigerians?” he said.
Amaechi said the government could channel the savings into
improving access to basic services, including primary and secondary education,
universities, and primary healthcare centres.
“You can start with primary schools, secondary schools,
universities, and primary healthcare centres — let Nigerians have access to
these things. It’s about affordability and accessibility,” he said.
Amaechi also reflected on his time as governor, saying
investments in education and healthcare helped improve access to public
services in Rivers state.
He said his administration built primary schools and
healthcare centres across communities and recruited thousands of teachers and
medical personnel to support service delivery.
Amaechi added that effective collaboration between the
president and state governors is key to implementing such reforms at the
national level.
The former governor said the president needs “to engage the
governors and agree on timelines. Governors are not difficult to work with if
there is proper coordination”.
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