The Nigerian government has called for understanding and collaboration among the diplomatic community in its ongoing efforts to address the economic challenges of the nation.
The call was made by Nigerian Minister of Foreign Affairs Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar and his counterpart, Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohamed Idris at a briefing of the Members of the Diplomatic Corps on the Programs and Policies of the Government in Abuja.
Speaking the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar explained that while the government continues to put various measures to address the challenges facing Nigeria and Nigerians, it is pertinent to note that no nation tolerates foreign interference in its domestic affairs and that of its citizens. Nigeria is not an exception. Nigeria values its relationships with other countries but will not tolerate external interference.
“The government would take appropriate action against any foreign entity residing in Nigeria that is found to have directly or indirectly supported the protesters by whatever means or seeks to interfere in the internal affairs of the country. Nigeria cherishes and continues to value the cordial relationships that happily subsist between her and your countries and organizations and will not do anything to undermine or take for granted such relationships. Indeed, more than any time before now, we solicit your understanding and collaboration in the ongoing efforts of the Federal government in addressing the economic challenges confronting the country, to achieve a better life for every Nigerian at home and abroad.”
Ambassador Tuggar highlighted various measures taken by the government to address the concerns of Nigerians.
“The past 14 months, the Federal government has made significant strides in rebuilding the foundation of the economy to carry the country into a future of plenty and abundance. On the fiscal side, aggregate government revenues have more than doubled, hitting over 9.1 trillion Naira in the first half of 2024 compared to the first half of 2023. Coming from a place where our country spent 97% of all our revenue on debt servicing, we have been able to reduce that to 68% in the last 13 months. The Federal government has also cleared legitimate outstanding foreign exchange obligations of about $ 5 billion without any adverse impact on her programs.”
Similarly, Nigeria’s Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, said the Tinubu Administration’s primary focus is not to impose hardship on Nigerians but to correct poor policies and dysfunctional choices that have historically hindered Nigeria’s progress, with bold and effective solutions.
He also noted that the President is determined to implement reforms that would drive sustainable growth and improve the quality of life for all citizens, stressing that the current challenges are only temporary.
“It is important to kick off on this note: that President Tinubu did not come to office to cause hardship or make life difficult for Nigerians. 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. We have been very determined about ensuring that these interventions are fully implemented, and bring the intended relief to Nigerians,” he stated.
While speaking on the nationwide protest, the Minister of Information said the government respects the right to peaceful assembly and freedom of expression, which are cornerstones of all democratic societies.
Stressing that what began as a peaceful protest in some States and the Federal Capital Territory, was soon hijacked by elements who infiltrated the protest and orchestrated violent activities that destroyed lives and properties.
“There were reports of arson, vandalism, looting, and clashes with law enforcement agents in several cities. Tragically, these incidents led to the loss of innocent lives and significant damage to properties.
“ In response to these unforeseen events, the Federal Government acted swiftly to restore peace and order. It is important to emphasize that the security forces were instructed to exercise maximum restraint and adhere to international standards in managing civil protests. They have indeed put in a lot of work to ensure the safety of all law-abiding Nigerians, and to maintain order, in the last week. But they have also been decisive in their response to criminality, and it is important to separate these from their commendable approach to legitimate protests,” he said.
The government further assured the Diplomatic Community that the worst was over and that the Government had launched an investigation into the violence that occurred during the protest to identify and bring to justice all those responsible.
Lantana Nasir
