In a nationwide broadcast on Sunday, August 4, 2024, Nigeria’s President Bola Ahmed Tinubu appealed to citizens protesting against bad governance to “suspend their protests and create room for dialogue.” The President emphasized the importance of maintaining peace and urged security forces to respect human rights while ensuring public order.
The removal of a fuel subsidy in May 2023 has exacerbated economic struggles for many Nigerians, leading to inflation rates not seen in three decades. This economic strain has sparked protests across the country, with demonstrators calling for action on issues like the high cost of living, corruption, and unemployment. Although many protests have been peaceful, there have been reports of extrajudicial killings by security forces in northern states such as Borno, Jigawa, Kaduna, Niger, and Kano. Amnesty International reports that 13 protesters have died, while the police report seven fatalities.
President Tinubu expressed condolences to the families of the deceased and warned that further destruction of property would hinder national progress. He highlighted various government initiatives designed to alleviate the economic burden on citizens and promote development:
1. Increased Government Revenue and Reduced Debt: Government revenues have more than doubled, reaching over 9.1 trillion Naira in the first half of 2024, and debt servicing costs have decreased from 97% to 68%.
2. Infrastructure Projects: Significant projects like the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway and Sokoto-Badagry Highway are expected to create jobs and enhance economic output.
3. Boost in Oil and Gas Production: Oil production has risen to 1.61 million barrels per day, attracting foreign investments exceeding half a billion dollars.
4. Compressed Natural Gas Initiative: This initiative aims to reduce transportation costs by distributing one million conversion kits for commercial vehicles, which currently consume the majority of imported fuel.
5. Student Loans and Consumer Credit: Substantial funds have been allocated to support students and provide consumer credit, including 45.6 billion Naira in student loans.
6. Job Creation and Business Support: Programs are in place to support small businesses and large manufacturers with loans and grants totaling over 570 billion Naira.
7. Housing Projects: Plans to build thousands of housing units across the country, including the Renewed Hope City and Estate projects.
8. Food Price Reduction: Removal of tariffs and import duties on essential food items and agricultural supplies for six months to lower food prices.
Despite the current challenges, President Tinubu assured citizens that his administration is committed to economic recovery and improving the lives of Nigerians. He urged unity and cooperation to build a brighter future for the nation, emphasizing that violence and destruction would only hinder progress. Tinubu reiterated the need for dialogue and collective efforts to address the country’s issues and promote sustainable development.
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