By: Nwakaji Peace Martins
Founder of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), Boniface Aniebonam, has asserted that Nigeria was already in a state of crisis before President Bola Tinubu assumed office.
Aniebonam, acknowledging that the president was cognizant of the country’s challenges prior to his tenure, made these remarks while evaluating Tinubu’s administration over the past year.
In a statement released by Aniebonam yesterday, he emphasized that President Tinubu’s comprehension of Nigeria’s issues prompted him to introduce the Renewed Hope Agenda to address these challenges directly.
“The conviction held by NNPP members is that a truly exceptional leader is one who is willing to make a decision, even if it is flawed, rather than abstaining from making any decision on urgent state matters.
“The president, being human, may have made some erroneous decisions, such as removing the deeply-rooted corruption in the oil subsidy without adequately planning for the aftermath, but in the long run, it will prove beneficial.
“Hence, now is the time for all Nigerians to demonstrate unwavering determination, work diligently, and make sacrifices for the betterment of our nation.”
Aniebonam stated that Tinubu and his cabinet have successfully transitioned Nigeria from the intensive care unit to a general ward, indicating that there is hope for Nigeria’s prosperity in the near future.
“Looking ahead, NNPP members believe that Nigeria’s greatness lies in the hands of its citizens.
“To achieve this goal, we must enhance productivity in education, uphold the rule of law, invest in science and technology, agriculture, and industrialization, while curbing corruption and public disorder.
“Therefore, now is not the time to assign blame under the guise of opposition to government actions.
Opposition parties must engage in responsible and constructive criticisms, demonstrating respect and patriotism.
“It is imperative to advise and support the president, as well as the leaders of the legislative and judicial branches, to ensure that every decision made is in the best interest of the Nigerian people.
“We firmly believe that political appointments should be made in a manner that upholds the renewed hope for Nigeria.”
He urged the president to appoint the most qualified individuals to key positions to drive the agenda for a more prosperous Nigeria.
He also called for the maintenance of Nigeria’s federal highways to reduce accidents, kidnappings, and other criminal activities.
“The establishment of national carriers, both maritime and aviation, should be prioritized to reduce freight costs and alleviate pressure on the local currency exchange rate.
“Nigeria must focus on aggressive local production to minimize the impact of foreign exchange challenges on our reserves and purchasing power.
“Specifically, the Nigerian workforce requires a living wage to align with the economic realities of the country, ensuring industrial harmony.
“Expanding technical education opportunities is key to addressing unemployment in Nigeria. Therefore, access to startup funds should be made more accessible for graduates to engage in local production.
“Smart-based education at all levels is crucial to enable Nigerians to compete globally and empower our youth in the realm of information technology,” he stated.
Additionally, the party has urged caution in handling the Emirate stool dispute in Kano State, emphasizing the need for strict adherence to the rule of law in resolving the conflict.
Aniebonam informed reporters that all parties involved must exercise caution to prevent Kano from descending into unnecessary turmoil, which could hinder the democratic progress Nigeria has been nurturing.
“Kano State is the only state governed by the NNPP in Nigeria. As a peace-loving party that values law and divine guidance, we earnestly appeal to all parties involved to proceed with caution. The overall interest of the people of Kano should take precedence over personal interests.
“We are dismayed by the breakdown of law and order in the state under the NNPP leadership and the factions vying for control of the emirate.
“The critical aspect in the intense struggle for control of the Kano royalty is that both rival royal factions must ensure strict adherence to the rule of law,” he stressed.
Aniebonam, who also founded the National Association of Government-Approved Freight Forwarders, emphasized the importance of fully complying with court judgments from competent authorities.
“This counsel is essential, as any unrest in Kano could have negative repercussions for the entire nation. Let wisdom prevail between the two factions in the interest of public peace and the sanctity of the emirate,” he concluded.
He commended President Tinubu and the elders of the Kano emirate for their dedication to peace and their efforts to maintain harmony in society and Kano State specifically.
