The President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Bola Tinubu has responded to the violent protests that have swept across the country, promising economic recovery to meet up with their demands.
In a heartfelt address to the nation on Sunday, August 4th, Tinubu admonishes the urgency and responsibility as the President to address the pain and frustration that is driving young Nigerians to the streets while condemning the violence that has resulted in loss of lives and destruction of property in states such as Borno, Jigawa, Kano, and Kaduna.
He stresses his commitment to restoring public order and protecting citizens and urged protesters and organizers to suspend further demonstrations in favor of dialogue.
Warning that the government would not tolerate actions that threaten the nation’s unity, while demanding that all Nigerians must work together, regardless of age, party, tribe, or religion to achieve the good governance and accountability they crave.
According to him, his administration has made significant strides to stabilize the economy and improve the quality of life for all Nigerians, particularly in the removal of fuel subsidies and the abolition of multiple foreign exchange systems.
These he said have doubled government revenues and reduced debt service costs, thereby improving infrastructure projects, housing initiatives, and support for small businesses and students, aimed at creating jobs and stimulating economic growth.
President Tinubu added that his renewed hope agenda has been able to address rising transportation costs and reduce inflation, with the launch of a Compressed Natural Gas Initiative that has started distributing conversion kits for commercial vehicles, and the lifting of tariffs on essential food items and medical supplies for more affordable prices in the country.
“My dear Nigerians, especially our youth, I have heard you loud and clear. I understand the pain and frustration that drive these protests, and I want to assure you that our government is committed to listening and addressing the concerns of our citizens. But we must not let violence and destruction tear our nation apart. We must work together to build a brighter future, where every Nigerian can live with dignity and prosperity.
The task before us is a collective one, and I am leading the charge as your President. A lot of work has gone into stabilizing our economy and I must stay focused on that the benefits reach every single Nigerian as promised.
My administration is working very hard to improve and expand our national infrastructure and create more opportunities for our young people.
Let nobody misinform and miseducate you about your country or tell you that your government does not care about you.
We are working hard for you, and the results will soon be visible and concrete for everyone to see, feel, and enjoy. Let us work together to build a brighter future for ourselves and for generations to come. Let us choose hope over fear, unity over division, and progress over stagnation. The economy is recovering; Please, don’t shut out its oxygen. Now that we have been enjoying democratic governance for 25 years, do not let the enemies of democracy use you to promote an unconstitutional agenda that will set us back on our democratic journey. FORWARD EVER, BACKWARD NEVER!
In conclusion, security operatives should continue to maintain peace, law, and order in our country following the necessary conventions on human rights, to which Nigeria is a signatory. The safety and security of all Nigerians are paramount.“