FG Begs Nigerians: Please, Don’t Protest
The Federal Government has urged Nigerians to avoid protests, emphasizing the administration’s commitment to economic prosperity. Akume stated, “Economic prosperity for the nation remains the ultimate goal of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration. It drives progress, lifts families from poverty, and builds strong, resilient societies.
Importance of Peace and Stability
Akume stressed the need for peace and stability to achieve these goals. “We must enjoy peace and stability because it builds trust, cooperation, and shared purpose. When peace reigns, policies yield results, businesses thrive, investments flourish, and creativity is unleashed,” he said. The current administration, which began in May 2023, inherited an economy in need of urgent reforms. The removal of the fuel subsidy, though necessary, has led to adjustments affecting the economy and daily lives. Additionally, the administration is addressing a long-standing security situation requiring upgrades to security infrastructure and personnel.
Achievements in Various Sectors
Akume highlighted significant achievements within 14 months of leadership, laying the foundation for long-term prosperity:
Labour Sector and Support for the Masses
Subsidy Removal Impact: N5 billion released to each state to cushion the impact, prioritizing the poor, vulnerable, and elderly.
Wage Award: N35,000 wage award for six months, higher than the previous minimum wage.
New Minimum Wage: Signed into law, increasing the minimum wage to N70,000 retroactively from April.
Food Assistance: States receiving 20 trailer loads of assorted grains to reduce food costs.
Food Tariffs Removed: Tariffs on imported food items removed to lower prices.
Farm Inputs: Fertilizers and other farm inputs are provided at subsidized rates.
Agricultural Land Development: Repositioned to assist farmers.
Ministry for Livestock Development: Established to address sector challenges and boost protein availability.
The government recognizes the right to peaceful protest, but protests can be hijacked by criminals. We ask Nigerians to prioritize peace and dialogue to address our challenges. Together, we can create a Nigeria where peace, stability, and economic growth are realities,” said Akume.
Infrastructure and Industrial Development
Roads and Infrastructure: Developing critical infrastructure nationwide.
Support for MSMEs: Bank of Industry funded to grow small and medium enterprises.
Renewed Hope Infrastructure Plan: Unveiled to catalyze economic growth.
Railways: Expanding rail infrastructure for affordable transportation.
Social Safety Net Programs
Family Support Cash Grants: Over 15 million indigent families benefit from cash grants.
Local Government Autonomy
Supreme Court Ruling: Secured financial and developmental autonomy for local governments.
Youth Development
Youth Ministry: Created to focus on the youth, a large part of the population.
Educational Loans: NELFUND provides loans to over 40,000 students.
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