President Bola Ahmed Tinubu addressed the nation today amid ongoing nationwide protests, expressing deep sorrow over the loss of lives and property damage in several states, including Borno, Jigawa, Kano, and Kaduna. The President highlighted the participation of young Nigerians in the protests, who seek a better future for the country.
President Tinubu condemned the violence and destruction that have marred the protests, contrary to organizers’ promises of peaceful demonstrations. He assured the families of those who lost their lives that the government is committed to halting further bloodshed and violence.
“As President, I must ensure public order and protect the lives and property of every citizen,” Tinubu said. He urged protesters to suspend further demonstrations and engage in dialogue, emphasizing the need for unity across age, party, tribe, and religion to reshape Nigeria’s destiny. The President warned those exploiting the situation for political gain that the law would catch up with them, asserting that there is no place for ethnic bigotry in the nation.
Tinubu reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to good governance, highlighting significant strides made in the past 14 months. He pointed out the removal of fuel subsidies and the abolition of multiple foreign exchange systems as necessary steps to reverse decades of economic mismanagement.
The President reported that government revenues had more than doubled, reaching over 9.1 trillion Naira in the first half of 2024. He noted progress in the non-oil sector and a reduction in debt service from 97% to 68% of revenue. Tinubu emphasized the benefits of these economic reforms, including increased financial freedom to invest in essential social services like education and healthcare.
On infrastructure, Tinubu mentioned ongoing projects such as the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway and Sokoto-Badagry Highway, which aim to create jobs and boost economic output. He also highlighted the resurgence of the oil and gas industry and the launch of the Compressed Natural Gas Initiative to reduce transportation costs and curb inflation.
The President outlined various youth empowerment programs, including the student loan scheme and the establishment of the Consumer Credit Corporation. He announced an additional N50 billion for the student loan fund and Credit Corporation from crime proceeds recovered by the EFCC.
Tinubu also discussed plans to boost food production, including removing tariffs on essential imports and distributing fertilizers to cultivate over 10 million hectares of land. He assured citizens that mechanized farming equipment from the United States, Belarus, and Brazil is on the way to support these efforts.
In his closing remarks, Tinubu urged Nigerians, especially the youth, to choose hope over fear and unity over division. He called for collective effort to build a brighter future and warned against misinformation and unconstitutional agendas. The President emphasized the government’s dedication to improving national infrastructure and creating opportunities for young people.
“Let us work together to build a brighter future for ourselves and for generations to come,” Tinubu said. “The economy is recovering; please don’t shut out its oxygen.”
Security operatives were instructed to maintain peace and order in accordance with human rights conventions, ensuring the safety and security of all Nigerians.
**ENDS**