Economy has not been kind to Nigerians

The lawmaker representing Delta Central Senatorial District at the National Assembly, Senator Ede Dafinone, has said “the economy has not been kind to Nigerians, especially those at the lower rung of the ladder”. 

Senator Dafinone stated this on Friday as he distributed palliative items including grinding machines, generators, sewing machines, make-up kits, food items and other empowerment tools to members of his constituency.

“We are aware of the hunger in the land and have deemed it necessary to support the less privileged,” he said.

No fewer than 2,500 constituents benefitted from the gesture held at Dafinone’s company premises in Amukpe, Delta State. 

The palliative items distributed on the occasion comprised 65 grinding machines, 30 sewing machines (Butterfly – Manual), 40 vulcanizing machines (DS 200 Tiger), 40 welding machines (Maxmech), 60 industrial gas burners (Local), 20 water pumping machines (SUMEC), 40 car washing machines (power sprayer).

Also were 60 local industrial oven (Local), 60 three-legged pots and fryers, 40 generator –  (Shineray Generator 2.5KVA), eight freezers – Hisence 142 litres chests, 32 makeup box sets with ring light (14 inches ring lights with USB cables and Tripod), 24 hair washing basin (plastic) –  fibre washing hair basin, 24 hair dryers, 1,200 Big Bull – 25kg bags of rice and 1,200 kegs of palm oil.

Speaking during the presentation ceremony, Dafinine urged Nigerians to exercise patience, assuring them that the government was cognisant of the prevailing economic challenges.

Dafinone who acknowledged the biting economic conditions, particularly as affecting the vulnerable, however, justified the government policies amidst criticisms saying “The increase in fuel prices, dollar exchange rates and food costs are outcomes of policies designed to strengthen the economy.” 

“It’s like taking a bitter pill; it’s unpleasant now, but it’s for the long-term benefit,” he stated. 

According to the lawmaker, “the government is committed to ameliorating the pains associated with these measures.”

He further said, “We are taking steps to alleviate these challenges. This empowerment programme is a testament to our commitment.

“The APC government is responsive to people. The increase is designed to strengthen the economy and things will get better. The decision of the President is for us to adjust for the economy to take off.

“This is the first phase of our own empowerment initiative. We plan to reach more people in subsequent programmes. We understand that there might be some disparities in the distribution process, but we assure you that we are working to ensure that the most deserving benefit.”

Dafinone commended President Tinubu for his “bold decisions”, particularly the removal of fuel subsidy, which he described as a long-overdue step. 

He said, “The President is aware of the people’s suffering and is implementing palliatives to cushion the effects.”

The woman leader of the Dafinone Foundation and Dafinone Cooperative, Mrs. Obakpolor Vic, expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to be part of the empowerment programme saying “Working with Senator Dafinone has been a seamless experience.”

A beneficiary, Innocent Ededegba from Ughelli South, also lauded Dafinone for the initiative, noting that “this gesture is a huge relief to our people, especially in these challenging times.”

Chief of Staff to Senator Dafinone, Olorogun Adelabu, urged beneficiaries to make optimal use of the items which, according to him, “are meant to empower you financially.”

“We expect you to utilise them wisely,” he stated.