The Minister of Youth Development, State, Ayodele Olawande has begged Nigerians, especially the youths to cancel the August 1st planned national protest over economic hardship faced by Nigerians.
The Minister also praised President Bola Tinubu’s efforts at addressing the economic difficulties currently facing the country.
His comments come amid criticism of the Tinubu administration’s economic management, with many Nigerians expressing dissatisfaction over rising living costs and planning nationwide protests from August 1 to 10.
Speaking at a press conference on Thursday in Abuja, organized by the Renewed Hope Ambassadors, Olawande acknowledged the challenges Nigerians are experiencing but expressed confidence in the president’s commitment to resolving them.
“President Bola Ahmed Tinubu genuinely cares about Nigeria,” Olawande stated. “The decisions he has made are in the country’s best interest. We need to prioritize our love for this country over party affiliations.”
Olawande highlighted government achievements such as the 130% increase in the minimum wage, the reduction of the review period for minimum wage from five years to three, and the National Assembly’s passage of these changes.
“We recognize the can-do spirit among Nigerians,” Olawande continued. “We are asking for your cooperation. The president has opened up various sectors and is listening to your concerns. Unemployment is a significant issue, but not everyone can be a civil servant.”
The minister urged citizens to be realistic and leverage government opportunities, advising against using social media to destabilize the country.
“You have the right to express yourselves, but it’s important to understand the value of dialogue and research. We should work together and engage in discussions with the government, which is open to listening.”
Earlier, Mr. Bala Ahmed, Coordinator of the Renewed Hope Ambassadors, acknowledged the difficulties faced by Nigerians due to government policies but urged patience and unity.
Ahmed, represented by Zack Oji, a former president of the Guild of Nigerian Actors, emphasized the need for solidarity in overcoming challenges and building a better Nigeria. He noted several policies from the Tinubu administration, including the approval of 10 billion naira for CNG buses, a 35 billion naira student loan, and the suspension of duties and taxes on food commodities.
Ahmed advised citizens to weigh the consequences of the planned protest and explore more constructive methods for achieving change.
“From the perspective of Renewed Hope Ambassadors and other stakeholders, this protest, led by unidentified groups, poses significant risks across Nigeria,” Ahmed said. “It could lead to widespread unrest, deter investments, and stifle economic growth, further straining healthcare and education. Such protests might deepen societal divisions and hinder progress, as seen in Kenya’s recent experience. We urge citizens to consider these potential consequences and seek more constructive paths for change.”
The Renewed Hope Ambassadors also announced the launch of The Jagaban Will Fix It Nigeria Project, aimed at addressing concerns through town hall meetings and capacity-building initiatives. This project intends to engage young people and informal sectors in rural areas, reaching 100 communities and empowering 5,000 individuals across the FCT and all 36 states.
“We urgently appeal to Nigerians and stakeholders in the entertainment industry to reconsider participating in the planned protest,” the group concluded.
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