The Federal Government has announced that there is no longer a need for the planned nationwide hunger protests scheduled from August 1 to 10, 2024.
This statement was made by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, while addressing State House correspondents after the Federal Executive Council meeting on Monday, presided over by President Bola Tinubu.
Idris emphasized that the government is already addressing several demands made by aggrieved Nigerians and is taking significant steps to ensure food availability. “Many of the issues that those planning the protest are putting forward are being addressed. The government is making efforts to make sure that food is made available,” he said.
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The minister highlighted specific measures taken by the government, including the distribution of rice to various centers across the country at a controlled price of N40,000. “This is just the beginning and a necessary first step. Other efforts are underway,” Idris added, noting that substantial investments are being made in the agricultural sector, which is expected to lower food prices over time.
Idris also mentioned that the government is addressing broader concerns raised by the youth, such as education and transportation. “The student loan is making sure that no youth who wants to go to school will be left out. By the time the CNG (Compressed Natural Gas) initiative takes full course, the transportation issues will be resolved,” he explained.
The minister reassured that President Tinubu believes the government is effectively responding to the questions and needs of the youth, aiming to alleviate the issues that have prompted calls for protest.