As protests against hunger commence on Thursday, August 1, 2024, the federal government once again urged for peace and stability, emphasizing that economic prosperity under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration can only be achieved in such an atmosphere.
Despite this, more groups have withdrawn from the protests, urging pro-protest elements to embrace dialogue and consider the potential repercussions of the protests.
Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) Senator George Akume, at a world press conference in Abuja, highlighted the administration’s commitment to economic prosperity, which he said is the engine that drives progress and lifts families from poverty.
The SGF acknowledged the temporary hardships resulting from bold reforms, including the removal of the fuel subsidy. He emphasized that the administration inherited an economy in need of urgent reforms and that the government is providing the leadership needed to lead Nigeria to economic prosperity.
Senator Akume also outlined significant achievements of the Tinubu administration within fourteen months, such as the release of five billion Naira to each state to cushion the impact of subsidy removal, a wage award, a new National Minimum Wage Act, and the distribution of grains and fertilizers to boost food production.
Minister of Information and National Orientation Alhaji Idris Mohammed added that the government is selling bags of rice at subsidized rates and highlighted the achievements in education, loans, and grants to support students and MSMEs.
The administration also introduced the Presidential Compressed Natural Gas Initiative to reduce transportation costs and create job opportunities, with significant private-sector investments in CNG facilities nationwide.
In conclusion, the federal government continues to advocate for dialogue and peace, stressing that stability is crucial for achieving long-term economic goals and improving the standard of living for Nigerians.
