The Nigerian government has reiterated its dedication to enhancing governance for effectiveness and accountability at all levels. This was disclosed by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, during a World Press conference in Abuja ahead of the proposed nationwide protests.
Minister Idris emphasized the administration’s priority in keeping citizens informed about government activities and efforts to improve the livelihood of Nigerians. He highlighted President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s achievements in laying the foundation for an economically viable, sufficient, and secure Nigeria.
“President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has performed creditably in laying the foundation for a Nigeria that would be economically viable, sufficient, and secure. The energy used to organize a ‘national protest’ would be better spent exploring the numerous opportunities available to Nigerians through the Tinubu administration,” Idris stated.
To mitigate the effects of the petroleum subsidy removal, Idris mentioned the introduction of the Presidential Grants and Loans Scheme. “The Tinubu administration introduced the Presidential Grants and Loans Scheme, with the disbursement of the N50,000 grant under the 50 Billion Naira Grants component. So far, over 600,000 Nigerians have received N50,000 grants across the 774 Local Government Areas,” he said.
He also highlighted the Presidential Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) Initiative aimed at reducing transportation costs by up to 50% and unlocking Nigeria’s potential in the gas sector. “CNG conversion centers are expanding rapidly across the country, creating more job opportunities. Since the launch of the initiative last year, we have seen over USD 50 million in private-sector investments in CNG conversion and fueling facilities nationwide,” he added.
The Federal Government has provided 30,000 kits for converting petrol-powered commercial vehicles to CNG engines at no cost within 90 days. Additionally, the first batch of CNG Mass Transit Buses for distribution to the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) has arrived.
Minister Idris appealed to the youth to exercise patience and allow the ongoing initiatives to materialize. “A pushback to current government policies under the guise of protests only shows the organizers’ inability to understand the realistic conditions necessary for growth and development,” he remarked.
He underscored that one significant development following the removal of the petroleum subsidy is the energy transition from petroleum to CNG for vehicles and machinery, which presents vast opportunities for citizens. “The CNG energy transition requires infrastructure rollout across Nigeria, opening a world of opportunities for massive participation in the value chain,” Idris noted.
In his concluding remarks, Idris urged the youth to maintain peace and stability, emphasizing the government’s commitment to enhancing Nigeria’s economic prospects and quality of life for its citizens.