10 Key Points From President Tinubu’s Speech on #EndBadGovernanceinNigeria

In a solemn address to the nation on Sunday, August 4, 2024, President Bola Tinubu spoke directly to the hearts of Nigerians, reeling from days of nationwide protests triggered by escalating economic difficulties.

The protests, which began on August 1, have seen widespread unrest, leading to the loss of at least 17 lives due to clashes with security forces. Here’s a look at the key points from his address:

Empathy and a Plea for Calm

President Tinubu began by extending his deepest condolences to the families of those who have perished in the protests, expressing his grief over the violence that has swept across various states. “We must stop further bloodshed, violence, and destruction,” he implored, calling for an immediate cessation of hostilities and a return to peaceful discourse.

Urging Suspension of Protests

In a direct appeal to protesters and their organizers, the President urged a halt to the demonstrations, proposing dialogue as the pathway to resolution. He stressed the importance of unity and constructive engagement in overcoming the current challenges, suggesting that continued conflict would only deepen the nation’s wounds.

Defending Economic Policies

Amidst criticism over his administration’s economic strategies, President Tinubu defended the removal of fuel subsidies and the overhaul of the foreign exchange system. He described these actions as critical measures to correct decades of economic mismanagement and foster a more stable economic environment.

Highlighting Fiscal and Infrastructure Advances

The President pointed to significant fiscal improvements, noting that government revenues in the first half of 2024 had more than doubled compared to the same period in 2023, reaching over N9.1 trillion. He also highlighted major infrastructure projects underway, including the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway and the Sokoto-Badagry Highway, which are anticipated to spur economic growth and improve connectivity.

Revitalizing the Oil and Gas Sector

Tinubu announced a boost in oil production to 1.61 million barrels per day and underscored renewed investor interest in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector. This revitalization is poised to play a crucial role in stabilizing the economy and securing energy independence.

Innovative Compressed Natural Gas Initiative

The administration has launched a Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) initiative aimed at reducing transportation costs and enhancing energy efficiency. The plan includes distributing one million CNG conversion kits, which will help mitigate the impact of fuel subsidy removals by offering a cheaper, cleaner alternative to petrol.

Empowering the Youth

Addressing the critical issue of youth unemployment and disenfranchisement, President Tinubu outlined several empowerment programs. These include new student loan schemes and initiatives supporting digital and creative enterprises, which aim to equip young Nigerians with the skills and opportunities needed to thrive in a modern economy.

Addressing Housing and Food Security

The President reaffirmed his commitment to improving living conditions through the Renewed Hope City and Estate initiative, which aims to complete 100,000 housing units in the next three years. Additionally, he revealed plans to boost food production by removing tariffs on certain food items and distributing essential farming equipment.

A Call for Unity and Patience

Concluding his address, President Tinubu called on all Nigerians to embrace hope, unity, and progress. “Let us work together to build a brighter future for ourselves and for generations to come,” he stated, urging the nation to prioritize collective well-being over division and strife.

As Nigeria navigates these tumultuous times, the President’s message underscores a critical crossroad: the choice between continued conflict and a united effort to forge a prosperous future.