Senator Representing Delta North Senatorial District, Senator Ned Nwoko has urged the Federal Government and fellow legislators to take decisive actions that will enable Nigerians to fully enjoy the benefits of independence, urging a focus on alleviating poverty, hunger, and economic dependency.
In his Independence Day message, released in Abuja, Nwoko emphasised that true independence should be reflected in the nation’s ability to free its citizens from the shackles of poverty and reliance on foreign economies.
He urged the government to prioritize policies that would lead to genuine economic liberation for all Nigerians.
The senator specifically advocated for an end to the use of foreign currencies, such as the U.S. dollar, in domestic transactions, including the sale of crude oil to local refineries like Dangote Refinery.
He advised that using two currencies within the country undermines national security and economic sovereignty, praising the federal government’s recent decision to sell crude oil to local refineries in Naira.
Nwoko further recommended converting all domiciliary accounts to Naira to prevent misuse, calling this an essential step toward strengthening the nation’s financial system.
He also urged the government to establish a Social Security Agency to replace the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, ensuring that the poorest Nigerians are included in a formal social safety network.
On the international front, Nwoko renewed his call for Europe to pay reparations to Africa, citing the historical exploitation of the continent.
He also advocated for the appointment of an African as the next Secretary-General of the Commonwealth of Nations and pressed for the adoption of a single African currency to prevent foreign manipulation of individual African economies.