By Omonu YG Nelson
The Honourable Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Maitama Tuggar has held a parley with the diplomatic corps on the current situation in Nigeria, highlighting the government’s efforts to address the concerns of protesters and deliver on its promises.
At the meeting on Wednesday, August 6, 2024, in Abuja, Tuggar said: “We understand the pain and frustration that drive the protests, and we are committed to listening and addressing the concerns of Nigerians,” said Ambassador Tuggar, quoting President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
The Minister outlined various measures taken by the government, including economic reforms, infrastructure development, youth empowerment programs, and efforts to address food prices and security concerns.
Ambassador Tuggar emphasised the importance of partnership between the federal, state, and local governments in delivering effective governance and development.
He also cautioned against foreign interference in Nigeria’s domestic affairs, stating that the government would take appropriate action against any foreign entity found to be supporting protesters or interfering in the country’s internal affairs.
He solicited the understanding and collaboration of the diplomatic corps in the government’s efforts to address the economic challenges facing Nigeria and achieve a better life for all Nigerians.
Also speaking at the meeting, the Honourable Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, emphasised the government’s commitment to democratic rights and its efforts to engage with citizens through various platforms.
“The President did not come to office to cause hardship or make life difficult for Nigerians,” said Minister Idris. “He has come to office with bold solutions to historical problems; with the determination to correct many of the poor policies and dysfunctional choices that have held us back as a nation for decades.”
The Minister highlighted the government’s initiatives to cushion the effects of the rising cost of living, including the suspension of import duties and taxes on essential food items, a new Executive Order on Healthcare, and the Presidential Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) Initiative.
“We have been very determined about ensuring that these interventions are fully implemented, and bring the intended relief to Nigerians,” said Minister Idris.
Regarding the recent protests, the Minister expressed regret over the violence and loss of life, but emphasised the government’s commitment to peaceful assembly and freedom of expression.
“The Federal Government of Nigeria fully supports the right to peaceful assembly and freedom of expression, which are cornerstones of all democratic societies,” said Minister Idris. “We are committed to preventing the recurrence of such unfortunate incidents in the future.”
The Minister also thanked the diplomatic community for their support and understanding during the challenging period, assuring them that “the worst is over, and we can now as a nation march forward to enjoy the fruit of all the policy and programme interventions being implemented.”