Nigeria’s Minister of State for Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, has appealed to the youth to halt their ongoing protests and allow President Bola Tinubu to continue his transformative efforts across various sectors of the economy.
In an interview with Voice of Nigeria, Olawande acknowledged the significant challenges facing the nation but emphasized that President Tinubu’s policies are aimed at benefiting the country and future generations. He highlighted the current administration’s unprecedented engagement with the youth and the introduction of youth-oriented policies and programs.
“The president means well for this country,” Olawande stated. He cited several initiatives, including student loans and new financial policies that aim to support the youth. “With the student loan, no child will go out of school due to lack of fees. The president has passed a bill allowing you to buy a car or build a house with flexible payments. We also have grants available.”
Olawande also pointed to advancements in the oil sector, such as the directive for local refineries to purchase crude oil with Nigerian Naira to strengthen the economy. “This same president directed that crude oil be given to local refineries in Naira to boost the economy,” he noted.
The minister urged the youth to give these policies time to produce results. He underscored the government’s efforts to bring governance closer to the people through local government autonomy and development projects. “The president has returned local government to the people to function effectively. In just one year, critical decisions have been made in the health sector, trade, and investment,” he said.
Olawande reaffirmed the government’s commitment to improving citizens’ lives and assured the youth that their voices are being heard. He called for unity and support, urging citizens to recognize and appreciate the positive changes implemented by the current administration.