The Federal Government has pointed fingers at opposition elements for exacerbating the ongoing food crisis in the country. This revelation coincides with the government’s uncovering of 32 new smuggling routes used to transport food items out of Nigeria.
President Bola Tinubu, represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, expressed concern over forces attempting to destabilize the nation, emphasizing that those who failed to secure power in the last election are now working against the country’s interests.
Speaking at the inaugural Public Wealth Management Conference in Abuja, Tinubu remarked, “Forces are hell-bent on plunging this country into a state of anarchy. Those who could not get into power through the ballot box…are so desperate. If this country can fall apart, as far as they’re concerned, so be it. We are going to resist them.”
The Tinubu administration has made significant policy changes, including the removal of long-standing petrol subsidies to save government funds for infrastructure development. However, reports suggest the government has covertly reintroduced subsidies to curb the rising cost of living.
Additionally, the government’s unification of foreign exchange rates has led to instability in the Naira’s value, exacerbating hardships as food prices soar.
Despite these challenges, President Tinubu remains optimistic about Nigeria’s recovery, dismissing comparisons to Venezuela made by some opposition governors. He urged Nigerians to unite against those seeking to undermine the nation.
Highlighting recent efforts to combat smuggling, Tinubu mentioned the interception of 45 trucks loaded with maize bound for a neighboring country. He emphasized the need for national unity and support for the government’s efforts to address economic challenges.
Looking ahead, Tinubu outlined plans to create millions of jobs by leveraging Nigeria’s public assets, aiming to double the country’s GDP over the next eight years. He stressed the importance of transparency and accountability in attracting investment capital for sustainable economic development.
In conclusion, Tinubu called for collaboration among stakeholders to optimize Nigeria’s assets, expressing confidence that these efforts will unlock the nation’s full potential and create a brighter future for all citizens.
