Tinubu Urges Peace, Dialogue Amid Nationwide Protests, Outlines Economic and Social Reforms

Segun Atanda/

In a nationwide address, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu today called for an immediate cessation of violent protests that have erupted across several states, resulting in loss of lives and widespread property damage.

Tinubu acknowledged the deep-seated frustrations and aspirations of the youth, who have been at the forefront of the demonstrations, and urged them to suspend further protests in favour of dialogue and constructive engagement.

The President expressed profound sorrow over the fatalities and destruction in states including Borno, Jigawa, Kano, and Kaduna. He emphasized the need to halt further violence and bloodshed, urging protesters to channel their grievances through peaceful means. He reiterated his administration’s commitment to ensuring public order and protecting lives and property, while also warning those with political agendas against exploiting the unrest to destabilize the nation.

He outlined a series of recent economic reforms aimed at addressing the underlying issues that have fueled public discontent.

Highlighting the necessity of removing fuel subsidies and abolishing multiple foreign exchange systems, Tinubu explained these measures were essential to reversing decades of economic mismanagement. He noted that these actions have already begun to yield positive results, with government revenues more than doubling and productivity in the non-oil sector on the rise.

In a bid to further support economic recovery and growth, President Tinubu detailed the launch of the Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) initiative, aimed at reducing transportation costs and curbing inflation. He announced the distribution of one million low-cost conversion kits for commercial vehicles, expected to cut transportation expenses by approximately 60%. Additionally, the government is investing heavily in major infrastructure projects, including the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway and Sokoto-Badagry Highway, to boost economic output and create jobs.

Tinubu also highlighted significant strides in fiscal management, reducing the country’s debt service burden and clearing substantial foreign exchange obligations. These improvements have enabled increased funding for essential social services, including education and healthcare, and facilitated record allocations to state and local governments.

The President reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to supporting the youth through various initiatives, including the student loan scheme, the establishment of the Consumer Credit Corporation, and the Digital and Creative Enterprises (IDiCE) program. He noted that significant funds have already been allocated to these programs, with more resources on the way to further empower young Nigerians.

Addressing food security, Tinubu announced the removal of tariffs and import duties on key agricultural products and medical supplies for the next six months. He outlined plans to cultivate over 10 million hectares of land, supported by mechanized farming equipment from international partners, to boost domestic food production and reduce reliance on imports.

In the housing sector, the President unveiled ambitious plans to construct 100,000 housing units over the next three years, providing affordable homes and creating thousands of jobs. The first phase of this initiative, the Renewed Hope City and Estate in Karsana, Abuja, is already underway, with additional projects planned across the nation’s geopolitical zones.

Tinubu concluded his address by urging all Nigerians to reject violence and division, and instead work together towards building a brighter, more prosperous future. He called on security operatives to maintain peace and order responsibly, ensuring the protection of human rights. Emphasizing the progress made in stabilizing the economy, he assured citizens that his administration remains focused on delivering good governance and tangible benefits to all Nigerians.

Thanking the nation for their attention, Tinubu expressed hope for continued unity and collective effort in overcoming the current challenges and achieving lasting progress for Nigeria.