Speaker Abbas appeals to protest organisers, others to shelve action in Nigeria’s interest

*Rt. Hon. (Dr.) Tajudeen Abbas, Speaker of the Nigerian House of Representatives, in the National Assembly, appeals protest organisers and other planners of the action, especially the Nigerian youths, to shelve their actions in the interest of the country and its citizens, assuring them President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration is committed to listening, engaging, and working with them to find sustainable solutions to the issues that confront the country

Isola Moses | ConsumerConnect

As the August 1, 2024, date slated for the commencement of a nationwide protest over current economic hardship is fast approaching, Rt. Hon. (Dr.) Tajudeen Abbas, Speaker of the Nigerian House of Representatives, in the National Assembly (NASS), has appealed to the ‘Take It Back’ movement, and other planners of the especially, especially the Nigerian youths, to shelve their actions in the interest of the country and its citizens.

Musa Krishi, Special Adviser to the Speaker on Media and Publicity, in a statement said Dr. Abbas, who noted the frustrations and reservations of the Nigerian youth, disclosed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration is not relenting in its efforts at bringing succour to Nigerians.

Rt. Hon. (Dr.) Tajudeen Abbas, Speaker of the Nigerian House of Representatives

The statement noted the Speaker also said the House of Representatives had taken measures to continuously engage the Nigerian youths to hear their yearnings and aspirations with a view to addressing same.

Abbas stated: “I address you today with a heart full of empathy and a deep sense of duty. We are living through challenging times, and I want to acknowledge the difficulties that many of you, especially our youth, are facing.

“The economic pressures, social uncertainties, and other related concerns weigh heavily on our nation.”

He further said: “Your frustrations and reservations are not lost on us. We hear your cries for change, for a better and more equitable Nigeria.

“I want to assure you that these concerns are taken with the utmost seriousness by the government of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR.

“We are committed to listening, engaging, and working with you to find sustainable solutions to the issues that confront us.”

The Speaker noted: “The government has initiated several policies and programs aimed at addressing the needs and aspirations of our youth.

“One of such initiatives is the introduction of student loans to ease the burden of educational expenses and ensure that no Nigerian youth is denied the opportunity to pursue their academic dreams due to financial constraints.”

“The Tinubu-led administration has also made significant strides in providing access to funds for young entrepreneurs through various schemes, such as the Consumer Credit Scheme, designed to support innovation and enterprise.”

Abbas equally stated: “In addition, we are focusing on job creation and skills development.

“Programmes aimed at enhancing employability and creating sustainable livelihoods are being prioritised. We are committed to ensuring that the Nigerian youth are not just job seekers but job creators.

“I also want to highlight the efforts of the House of Representatives in this regard. We are in the process of developing formal legislative mechanisms to ensure continuous engagement and dialogue with our youth.

“We believe that your voices must be heard, and we are creating platforms for regular interaction to build consensus on the way forward.

“Therefore, I urge you to remember that nation-building is a collective task. We must shun violence and embrace dialogue.

“Your right to protest is acknowledged and respected. Let us use legitimate avenues to express our grievances and work together towards constructive solutions.”

The Reps Speaker added: “At this juncture, I appeal to the planners of these national protests to shelve their action for the interest of our nation. Let’s give the government more time. Let’s open doors for purposeful dialogue with the government.

“As I have mentioned above, there are measures taken by the government to nip our challenges in the bud.

“In conclusion, I want to reaffirm the commitment of the House of Representatives to stand with you, to work with you, and to ensure that your future is bright.”