HARDSHIP LOOMING
In a candid acknowledgment of the escalating hardships faced by many Nigerians amidst soaring living costs and unprecedented inflation, Vice-President Kashim Shettima revealed the palpable discontent among the impoverished population towards government officials and the elite minority. Speaking at the graduation ceremony of the Executive Intelligence Management Course 16 participants, Shettima expressed concerns over the rising anger among the poor.
This admission comes against the backdrop of President Bola Tinubu's tenure, which commenced on May 29, 2023. Following the removal of petrol subsidies, fuel prices surged from N238-N263 per litre to a staggering minimum of N500, currently ranging between N580 and N615. Subsequent government decisions, such as allowing the naira to float against major international currencies, precipitated a significant depreciation, with the naira hitting an all-time low of N1,099.05/$ at the official forex window.
The VP stressed the urgent need for job creation and instilling hope in the populace to address the prevailing challenges, asserting that solving unemployment could mitigate insecurity issues like Boko Haram and banditry, particularly in the North. He emphasized the neglected state of the poor in society, drawing attention to their vulnerability and likening their plight to that of their animals.
Shettima acknowledged the diverse problems facing different regions, including IPOB agitation in the South-East, challenges in the South-South, and various security issues in the North. Despite urging citizens to exercise patience and support President Tinubu's efforts to reshape the country, he underscored the critical role of collective support in achieving meaningful change.
"I want to ask you to give the President the benefit of the doubt. Let us support you. Let us rally around and be reassured that he is determined to redefine the meaning and concept of modern leadership and is ever ready to reposition the Nigerian nation. But without the support of you and I, he can't do much," the VP concluded, appealing for solidarity in the face of ongoing socio-economic challenges.