Vice-President Kashim Shettima has called on Nigerians to protest the country's current economic challenges in a "responsible and mature manner." He acknowledged that the economic policies and choices adopted by the government come with challenges and difficulties, which would be "more telling on the poor."
Shettima made these remarks in Lagos during the 29th pre-Ramadan lecture organised by the University of Lagos Muslim Alumni. The theme of the lecture was "Economic Reforms for Nigeria: Challenges and Prospects for the Future." Represented by his Special Adviser on Political Matters, Dr. Hakeem Baba-Ahmed, the Vice-President also hinted that the forthcoming Ramadan would come with "severe" challenges for many Nigerians.
According to Prime 9ja Online, the removal of subsidy from petroleum and the floating of the naira by the present administration have triggered hyperinflation and a rise in the cost of food items. These economic changes have sparked protests across the country over hardship, even as President Bola Ahmed Tinubu continues to assure Nigerians that there's light at the end of the tunnel.
Tinubu recently criticised the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) for protesting over hardship in the country, stating that it is not acceptable to declare a strike when the administration is barely a year old.
Reiterating his stance, Vice-President Shettima said the reforms might be challenging, but the government has no intention to punish Nigerians. He stated, “The leadership of President Tinubu recognises that this Ramadan will come with severe challenges for most Nigerians. The road to where we are today was long and full of missed opportunities and tragic failures to build on our great potentials."
He further appealed to Nigerians to help make space for the administration to achieve the goal of turning the nation around. He emphasised that progress is only possible if it is informed by criticism and critical scrutiny. He concluded by joining Nigerians in praying that Allah will grant them the privilege of undertaking their Ramadan fast as prescribed by Him, and they shall receive the reward.