Shun calls for anti-hunger protest, SGF tells Nigerians

The Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, has urged Nigerians to shun the proposed nationwide protests and instead pursue peace, dialogue, and collaboration in addressing the country’s challenges.

The SGF made this statement during a press conference with journalists and media executives at the Radio House in Abuja on Wednesday.

He acknowledged the right to protest but expressed concerns about the planned protests being hijacked “by bandits, insurgents, and other criminals”.

“We, therefore, appeal to Nigerians of whatever persuasion, belief, demography, gender, and status to shun calls for protests against hunger by prioritising peace and progress. For the avoidance of doubt, the government of President Tinubu recognises the right to peaceful protest, but circumspection and vigilance should be our watchwords,” Akume said.

The SGF outlined several interventions of the President Tinubu-led administration in the 14 months since its inauguration. He mentioned that the country was undergoing refining and recalibration and that economic growth remained a goal of the Federal Government.

“Within a space of fourteen months of purposeful leadership, the administration has recorded tremendous accomplishments that laid the foundation for the immediate, medium, and long-term prosperity of Nigerians, in an inclusive manner.

“Mr. President approved a Wage Award of Thirty-five Thousand Naira for six months to cushion the effect on workers. This award was higher than the minimum wage. Mr. President has just signed into law a new National Minimum Wage Act, which prescribes N70,000.00. This represents more than a 100% increase from the last minimum wage (30,000) and takes retroactive effect from April.”

“As part of the efforts of the FG to take development to the grassroots, the government approached the Supreme Court for a decision on the funding of LGAs in Nigeria. The favourable judgement has now set the LGA on the path to its financial and development autonomy.

“For the first time in our nation, the President created a stand-alone Ministry for the Youth that accounts for a large percentage of our population. Under the N35 Billion Nigerian Education Loan Fund, approved beneficiaries have exceeded the 40 thousand mark, of the expected 70 thousand beneficiaries.”

He, therefore, described Nigeria as a work in progress, adding that the country will soon breathe a sigh of relief.