President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has called on Nigerians, particularly the youth, to postpone their planned protests against his administration, assuring them that their concerns are being addressed.
The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, conveyed Tinubu’s message to State House reporters on Tuesday after a meeting with the President.
The President emphasised his commitment to listening to the citizens and taking their issues seriously.
“Mr President said he listens to them and takes what they say seriously; and he is working assiduously to ensure that this country is good not just for today but also for the future,” Idris reported.
Tinubu believes the planned protests are unnecessary, urging the public to wait for the government’s response to their grievances.
The minister highlighted recent governmental actions as evidence of the administration’s dedication to addressing national challenges.
“Only today the NASS has expeditiously passed the bill on National Minimum Wage. The bill was transmitted only yesterday and today it has been passed,” he noted, demonstrating the government’s swift response to economic issues.
Idris also pointed to various measures aimed at alleviating hardships faced by Nigerians.
The government has approved the distribution of grains and rice to state governments, marking the beginning of ongoing support efforts. “Government is going to continue in that direction, ensuring that whatever intervention the Federal Government has put in place goes to those that should benefit,” he added.
In his appeal, the President urged young people to give his administration more time to realize its plans and initiatives. “The young people out there should listen to the President and allow the President more time to see to the realization of all the goodies he has for them,” Idris stated.
Nigeria is bracing for a significant nationwide protest organized by individuals and groups that aim to highlight a range of grievances, with the central cause being the economic hardship faced by ordinary Nigerians.
The primary catalysts for the protest are the government’s removal of fuel subsidies and the general rise in food prices.
Organizers argue that the removal disproportionately affects the poor and middle class, who already struggle with high transportation and energy costs.
Another major issue is the deteriorating security situation in various parts of the country. Frequent incidents of violence, kidnappings, and insurgent attacks have left citizens feeling unsafe.
Protesters are demanding more effective measures to ensure security and protect lives and property.
