Senator George Akume, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), has advised Nigerians to stay composed in the face of the ongoing economic difficulties.
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While addressing the National Executive Council of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Abuja on Thursday, Akume said “Nigerians must remain calm. President Bola Tinubu is working to improve the economy.”
He mentioned that the current government assumed power during a period of economic instability, highlighting, however, that substantial reforms are underway.
“One of them, which appears to be a little bit tough for people to understand, is the removal of subsidy on fuel. People should stop shouting; they need to know the actual truth,” Akume said.
He said that the government had taken several measures to address current hardships, including swift actions in implementing palliatives to cushion the effects of the reforms.
“We are all aware of the N35,000 wage award for workers, which means a N30,000 minimum wage with 35,000 on top of that.
“Additionally, 100 billion naira for CNG fuel buses will help reduce transportation costs and food prices,” he added.
He added that the government had also taken steps to support various sectors.
“These include the allocation of N125 billion in conditional grants and financial inclusion for medium and small enterprises, and 150 billion naira in palliative loans to states to mitigate the impact of fuel subsidy removal.
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“We are providing 200 billion naira to support the cultivation of hectares of land, which is even more now,” Akume said.
He noted that buses were prepared for imminent distribution, and rice along with other necessities would soon be provided.
Addressing the recent industrial strike by labor union leaders, Akume denounced the shutdown of the national grid, labeling it a “treasonable offense.”
He stated that nowhere in the world do labor unions disrupt the national grid and advised labor leaders against actions that could undermine government efforts.
“It is treason! A treasonable felony is economic sabotage, you don’t do that.
“We are trying to rebuild the economy. The nation is picking up, and they want to destroy it. Of what use is that to all of us? That is not the way,” he said.
Akume emphasized that the federal government was not only committed to implementing a new minimum wage but was also focusing on enhancing productivity and ensuring economic stability.
“Our people must rise up and have something in their pockets. It is not about demanding N100,000 without productivity.
“We are looking at controlling inflation and ensuring a balanced economy,” he asserted.
Akume called on religious institutions to offer essential services.
“The Church must collaborate with the government in providing facilities for people whether it is on education, health or agriculture.
“We don’t separate; we combine. There is a symbiotic relationship that can never be destroyed,” he said.
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