The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen has made a heartfelt appeal to those planning nationwide protests, particularly the Nigerian youth, urging them to reconsider their actions for the greater good of the country and its people.
In his address, Speaker Abbas acknowledged the deep frustrations and concerns among Nigerian youths. He expressed empathy for their difficulties, which stem from economic pressures, social uncertainties, and other related challenges. These issues, he noted, are heavy on the nation and have not gone unnoticed by the government.
He reassured the public that the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is actively working to alleviate these problems. The government is committed to addressing the issues facing Nigerians, particularly the youth, and is making concerted efforts to improve the situation.
Speaker Abbas emphasized that the House of Representatives is dedicated to continuous engagement with young people to understand their needs and aspirations.
This engagement is crucial for addressing their concerns effectively and finding practical solutions.
“I want to speak to you with a heart full of empathy and a strong sense of duty,” Speaker Abbas said. “We are in challenging times, and I fully recognize the difficulties that many of you, especially the youth, are experiencing. The pressures from the economy, social issues, and other related problems are significant and weigh heavily on our nation.”
He acknowledged that the frustrations of the youth are legitimate and that their calls for change are heard. The government, under President Tinubu, takes these concerns very seriously and is committed to listening and working with young people to find sustainable solutions to the problems they face.
One of the key initiatives introduced by the government is a student loan program designed to ease the burden of educational expenses. This initiative aims to ensure that no Nigerian youth is prevented from pursuing their academic goals due to financial constraints. The government has also implemented various policies to support young entrepreneurs. Schemes such as the Consumer Credit Scheme are designed to provide funding and support for innovation and enterprise among the youth.
Moreover, the government is focusing on creating job opportunities and developing skills. Programs are being prioritized to enhance employability and create sustainable livelihoods. The goal is to help youths not only find jobs but also become job creators themselves.
Speaker Abbas also highlighted the ongoing efforts of the House of Representatives to foster engagement with the youth. The House is working on establishing formal legislative mechanisms to ensure ongoing dialogue and interaction with young people. This initiative aims to create platforms for regular communication, allowing for a more effective way to build consensus and address issues.
He urged the youth to remember that nation-building is a collective responsibility. He emphasized the importance of avoiding violence and embracing dialogue as a means of expressing grievances. While acknowledging the right to protest, he encouraged the use of peaceful and legitimate methods to address concerns and work together toward constructive solutions.
In closing, Speaker Abbas appealed to the organizers of the planned protests to postpone their actions for the sake of national unity. He urged them to allow the government more time to address the issues and to open doors for meaningful dialogue. The government has already taken steps to tackle the challenges faced by the nation, and continued engagement with the youth is essential for finding effective solutions.
The Speaker reaffirmed the House of Representatives’ commitment to working with the youth and ensuring a bright future for all Nigerians. He stressed that the House is dedicated to standing by the youth and collaborating with them to overcome the current challenges and build a better future.
