Nigeria’s Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, says President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has secured over $15 billion in foreign direct investment pledges from various countries and companies during his international travels, as part of efforts to unlock investments in Africa’s most populous nation.
The Minister said the President’s engagements have showcased the nation’s potential and demonstrated its commitment to being a responsible and collaborative player in the global community.
“We have seen over $15 billion in foreign direct investment pledges in various sectors such as energy, steel, defence, and the automotive,” Idris said at a World Press Conference in Abuja, the nation’s capital.
He said investors are already taking action, with one of Japan’s largest pharmaceutical companies constructing a multi-million-dollar manufacturing plant in Ogun State, the first such investment by the company in Africa.
Economic Reforms
Idris also said the president has made bold and strategic moves to reposition the economy for rapid growth and development, such as removing fuel subsidies and declaring an emergency on food security.
He said these decisions align with the vision for a Nigeria that thrives on efficiency, transparency, and responsible governance, and that the government is working tirelessly to ensure that all citizens feel the benefits of a more sustainable economic future.
Security Challenges
The Minister also said the president has made the fight against insecurity a top priority of his administration, as contained in the Renewed Hope Agenda, and that comprehensive strategies are being implemented to address the root causes and ensure a safer, more secure Nigeria.
“The President understands the multifaceted nature of the challenges, and his commitment extends beyond military interventions. It encompasses even a non-kinetic approach. The goal is to quell immediate threats and create an environment where citizens can live without fear and insecurity,” he said.
He called for the support of the Armed Forces, working day and night to keep the country safe, and urged the media to devote airtime and space to give amplified coverage to their successes and gains.
Transport Subsidies
To cushion the effect of the high cost of transportation fares, the Minister said the Federal Government aims to lift five million commuters during this yuletide season with a 50% transportation rebate.
In addition, all train services are free for all Nigerians traveling from Thursday, December 21, 2023, to Thursday, January 4, 2024.
The Minister listed the participating road transport companies for the 50% rebate as GIG (God is Good), Chisco Transport, Young Shall Grow, God Bless Ezenwata, and Area Motor.
Values Charter
The Minister noted that the Federal Ministry of Information and National Orientation will unveil a ground-breaking citizen’s charter in the coming year, designed to define and uphold the core values that unite Nigerians while considering the nation’s socio-cultural diversities.
“I have already assembled a Committee of renowned experts to work on and finalize a Values Charter for Nigeria, in line with President Tinubu’s desire for true and sustained reorientation of national values and attitudes. The new Charter will be unveiled by the President early next year.”
Message of Hope
The Minister extended a message of hope and optimism to citizens, saying that in 2024, they should anticipate the fruits of the efforts beginning to blossom.
He said the reforms are not instantaneous miracles but deliberate steps towards building a stronger and more prosperous Nigeria.
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