In questioning the necessity of a protest on August 1, President Bola Tinubu asserts that he is actively dealing with a majority of the issues facing the country, particularly those affecting the youth.
Speaking through the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, the President raised concerns over the proposed protest during the Federal Executive Council meeting.
Idris highlighted the federal government’s recent student loan policy, emphasizing its focus on the youth to ensure that no Nigerian child would be forced to abandon their education due to financial constraints.
According to Idris, the Federal Executive Council believes that many of the demands made by the protesters are already being addressed or are in the process of being addressed by the government, rendering the protest unnecessary.
He reiterated, “This government is attentive to the needs of the people. The President has taken into account the concerns of those planning the protest, and the message is clear that the protest is unwarranted.”
Furthermore, the Information Minister pointed out, “In the recent council meeting, we disclosed that 20 trucks were allocated to state governors for distribution to the most impoverished individuals in society, to cater to their needs. However, the government’s efforts don’t end there.
“Rice is also being sold at half-price, with a bag priced at N40,000. These discounted rice supplies have been dispatched to various centers in all states for easy access to those in need.”
“Initially, each state received 10 trucks of rice, which is just the beginning. I understand that some may argue that it is insufficient.
“The government acknowledges that these efforts are just the starting point, and additional interventions are in progress. These initiatives are interim measures as significant investments are being made in the agricultural sector.”