Nigeria, March 19 -- Some commentators have said President Bola Tinubu took a reckless gamble when very early in his administration he removed fuel subsidy and introduced the market exchange rate. It was an oversimplified interpretation of his early policy decisions, which itself needs an interpretation. Since no one plays poker to lose, this understanding of the policy moves of Tinubu accepts that the president actually intended to improve the economy. But while many thought that he should have delayed the decisions, others felt the two reform measures constituted an overdose.

But leadership, as it is commonly said, is not a popularity contest. Effective leadership requires understanding of issues, vision, and the courage to take decisi...