PRESIDENT TINUBU’S ADDRESS: URGING AN END TO VIOLENCE AND HIGHLIGHTING ACHIEVEMENTS
By Nnadi Victor Ebuka
In a heartfelt address on August 4, 2024, President Bola Tinubu spoke to the nation amidst ongoing nationwide protests against economic hardship. His speech outlined the government’s efforts and achievements while calling for an immediate end to violence and bloodshed.
The President's Call for Peace
President Tinubu expressed deep sorrow over the violent protests, particularly lamenting the loss of lives and destruction of properties in states like Borno, Jigawa, Kano, and Kaduna. He emphasized the need for dialogue and unity, urging protesters to suspend further actions and engage in constructive discussions.
"I am especially pained by the loss of lives... We must stop further bloodshed, violence, and destruction," the President stated. He highlighted his constitutional responsibility to ensure public order and protect the lives and property of every citizen.
Government Achievements and Economic Reforms
The President outlined significant strides made by his administration in rebuilding the economy. He defended his controversial decisions to remove fuel subsidies and abolish multiple foreign exchange systems, which he argued were necessary to reverse decades of economic mismanagement.
"In the past 14 months, our government has made significant strides... Aggregate government revenues have more than doubled," President Tinubu noted. He also mentioned the reduction of debt service from 97% to 68% of revenue and the clearing of $5 billion in foreign exchange obligations.
Infrastructure and Development Initiatives
The address highlighted ongoing infrastructure projects, including the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway and Sokoto-Badagry Highway, which are expected to create thousands of jobs and boost economic output. The President also mentioned reforms in the oil and gas industry, leading to increased production and foreign investments.
"We have started the distribution of conversion kits and setting up conversion centres across the country," he said, referring to the Compressed Natural Gas Initiative aimed at reducing transportation costs and curbing inflation.
Support for Youth and Social Services
President Tinubu emphasized his administration's commitment to the youth, citing the establishment of a student loan scheme and the Consumer Credit Corporation to ease financial burdens on households. He also mentioned the Skill-Up Artisans Programme, Nigerian Youth Academy, and National Youth Talent Export Programme aimed at empowering young Nigerians.
"To date, 45.6 billion Naira has already been processed for payment to students and their respective institutions," the President announced.
Agricultural and Food Security Measures
To address food security, the President announced the removal of tariffs and import duties on essential food items and pharmaceutical supplies for six months. He outlined plans to cultivate more than 10 million hectares of land and provide necessary incentives for mechanized farming.
"I have directed that tariffs and other import duties should be removed on rice, wheat, maize, sorghum, drugs, and other pharmaceutical and medical supplies," he declared.
A Call for Unity and Collective Action
In conclusion, President Tinubu called on all Nigerians to work together to build a brighter future. He urged citizens to choose hope over fear, unity over division, and progress over stagnation.
"Let us work together to build a brighter future for ourselves and for generations to come," he implored. He also assured that security operatives would maintain peace, law, and order while respecting human rights conventions.
As Nigeria navigates these challenging times, President Tinubu’s address serves as a reminder of the government’s efforts and the importance of unity in achieving a prosperous and peaceful nation.
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