Why Buhari Said No to Floating the Naira — Then and Now

Описание: In this episode of The Coffee Table, Ugodre is joined by Femi Adesina, the former Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to President Muhammadu Buhari. Adesina takes us behind the scenes of his eight years at the helm of Nigeria's presidential communications, offering invaluable insights into the complexities of media, policy, and public perception under one of the most discussed administrations in Nigeria's history.

Adesina discusses the challenges of defending controversial decisions, such as the fuel subsidy removal, the closing of borders, and the country's handling of multiple economic recessions. He shares his personal journey in navigating the delicate balance of communicating government policies, often amid fierce criticism, and his role in presenting President Buhari as a figure of resilience and principle in the face of public misunderstanding.

Drawing from his recently published book Walking with Buhari, Adesina reflects on the legacies of Buhari's presidency, from his stance on the Naira to his emphasis on food security, infrastructure development, and navigating Nigeria’s international relations. He sheds light on the strategic communication efforts that shaped the administration's narrative, and how certain decisions, like the management of the economy during the pandemic, were misunderstood by the public.

Tune in for a candid conversation with one of Nigeria's most seasoned media advisers and get a deeper understanding of the inner workings of government communication, political leadership, and the media’s role in shaping public opinion.

Listen now for a firsthand account of the Buhari administration’s media strategy and legacy.