By Omolara Akintoye
Report has shown that President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI) is working
This was based on a recent opinion poll by Market Trends International, conducted using a nationally representative sample across urban and rural areas within a 2-week window in February 2026, the findings tell an interesting story.
According to the Executive Director, Market Trend International (MTI), Victor Ebhomenye, the Renewed Hope Agenda records a net favourable rating of +8 points, with 49% of respondents indicating that it is working.
While day-to-day challenges persist, key policies are quietly shaping Nigeria’s longterm trajectory. The National Integrated Infrastructure Master Plan (NIIMP) continues to guide investments in road networks and transport systems, improving connectivity and enabling economic activity across regions. In parallel, broader infrastructure reforms are gradually addressing power and logistics bottlenecks—creating a more
efficient environment for businesses.
In the agricultural and financial sectors, policy direction remains focused on inclusion and productivity.
‘The National Agricultural Technology and Innovation Policy (NATIP), Ebhomenye pointed out is strengthening local food systems through innovation and mechanization, while the Central Bank of Nigeria’s Financial Inclusion Strategy is expanding access to credit and financial services particularly for SMEs, youth, and women.
That said, these efforts are not yet fully felt at the household level”.
A significant 36% of respondents within the 49% believe the agenda is working—but not well enough, resulting in a net approval rating of -1 point.
The reasons are the following :
• Rising inflation continues to erode purchasing power
• Essential goods—food, transport, housing—have seen sharp price increases
• Unemployment and underemployment remain pressing concerns
There is a visible lag between policy implementation and real-life impact, and until inflation moderates and job opportunities improve, many Nigerians will continue to feel disconnected from these reforms.
“In summary, the Renewed Hope Agenda is laying important structural foundations, but the real test lies in translating policy progress into tangible household benefits” stated Ebhomenye.
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As reforms mature and macroeconomic pressures ease—alongside a gradual de-escalation of the ongoing U.S.–Iran conflict—the expectation is that more Nigerians will begin to feel the impact directly.
