Ministry of Defence: Minister Urges Dialogue Over Protest

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In light of recent developments, the Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, has made a public appeal for organizers of the upcoming protest to reconsider their plans. He advocates for a roundtable discussion with the Federal Government, highlighting that the reforms initiated under President Tinubu's administration are beginning to show significant results. The Minister reassured citizens that the nation's economy is on a path of gradual and steady recovery, with the government committed to further addressing their needs.

Minister Badaru emphasized that the economic reforms have led to tangible improvements in the lives of Nigerians. He pointed out that the economic growth recorded in the first quarter of 2024 was the second fastest for any first quarter in the past six years, signaling a positive trend.

In a statement by Henshaw Ogubike the Director Information and Public Relations he highlighted many areas where the government has performed very well. 

On the security front, the Minister noted substantial progress. Key highways and roads that were previously closed due to insecurity have been reopened. The establishment of the Livestock Ministry has mitigated the long-standing clashes between herders and farmers, allowing many farmers to return to their lands. Additionally, the President's support for farmers has been echoed by encouragement to state governors to follow suit. The surrender of numerous terrorists and the arrest of high-profile terrorist leaders are further testaments to the improved security landscape.


President Tinubu's introduction of the Nigerian Student Loan Scheme aims to enhance access to higher education and alleviate financial pressures on students. This is part of a broader strategy that includes increased funding for infrastructure projects under the Renewed Hope Infrastructure Development Fund (RHIDF), which covers critical areas such as roads, railways, energy, and irrigation systems.


A significant innovation introduced by President Tinubu is the sale of crude oil to indigenous refining companies in Naira, a move designed to strengthen the local economy. The signing of the National Minimum Wage Act into law is another effort aimed at improving the welfare of Nigerian workers. 


The Minister highlighted the autonomy granted to local governments, aimed at fostering effective accountability and grassroots development. This step is seen as crucial for enhancing governance across the country.


The launch of the Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) initiative is expected to reduce transportation costs by as much as 50 percent, unlocking the nation’s vast potential in the gas sector. The rapid growth of CNG conversion centers is creating numerous job opportunities, with the Federal Government providing 30,000 kits for converting petrol-powered engines at no cost within the next 90 days. The first batch of CNG mass transit buses for distribution to the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) has also arrived.

While acknowledging the democratic right to protest, Minister Badaru cautioned against any actions that might lead to disorder. He stressed that the planned protest on August 1 is poorly timed, given the positive economic turnaround. He urged the organizers to engage in dialogue with the government to address their concerns constructively.



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