By 
By Osasómé C.O
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has called on Nigerians, particularly the youth, to cease the nationwide protests that began on August 1, 2024, and have resulted in violence and fatalities across multiple cities.
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In a broadcast on Sunday, August 4th, the President appealed for peace and encouraged the leaders of the “Hunger Protest” to engage in dialogue with the government.
Acknowledging the grievances driving the protests, President Tinubu assured citizens of his administration’s commitment to addressing their concerns. He emphasized significant investments in digital capacity and other initiatives aimed at engaging young people in non-oil sectors to diversify the economy.
“My dear Nigerians, especially our youth, I have heard you loud and clear. I understand the pain and frustration that drive these protests, and I want to assure you that our government is committed to listening and addressing the concerns of our citizens,” President Tinubu stated.
Digital initiatives to empower young people
The President outlined several key programs designed to empower young people, including securing $620 million under the Digital and Creative Enterprises (IDiCE) program to create millions of IT and technical jobs, and the 3 Million Technical Talents (3MTT) scheme. He expressed regret that one of the digital centres was vandalised during the protests in Kano.
Additional initiatives highlighted by the President include the Skill-Up Artisans Programme (SUPA), the Nigerian Youth Academy (NIYA), and the National Youth Talent Export Programme, all aimed at enhancing capacity and employability among young Nigerians. He also noted the release of over N570 billion to the 36 states for livelihood support and nano-grants benefiting 600,000 small businesses, with plans to assist 400,000 more.
Further measures include processing 75,000 beneficiaries for N1 million Micro and Small Business single-digit interest loans, the creation of 240,000 jobs through 10 MSME hubs, with five more hubs set to be completed by October. Large manufacturers are also receiving payments of N1 billion each under single-digit loans to boost manufacturing output.
Economy in ruins; period of rebuilding will be painful
President Tinubu emphasized the introduction of the National Minimum Wage, set at a minimum of N70,000 per month, as part of efforts to enhance the spending capacity of Nigerians. He acknowledged the challenging economic situation but stressed the importance of working together to rebuild the nation without resorting to violence and destruction.
The economy is in ruins and the period of rebuilding will be painful, said Tinubu, “but we must not let violence and destruction tear our nation apart. We must work together to build a brighter future, where every Nigerian can live with dignity and prosperity.”
The President reaffirming his dedication to stabilizing the economy and ensuring that its benefits reach every Nigerian. “The task before us is a collective one, and I am leading the charge as your President. A lot of work has gone into stabilizing our economy and I must stay focused on ensuring that the benefits reach every single Nigerian as promised,” he added.
