Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) George Akume has called on Nigerians to remain calm amid ongoing economic challenges, emphasizing the government’s efforts to improve the situation.
Speaking in Abuja during a meeting with the National Executive Council of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Akume highlighted the administration’s focus on comprehensive reforms to stabilize the economy inherited in a turbulent state.
“Nigerians must remain calm. President Bola Tinubu is working to improve the economy,” Akume stated, referencing significant measures taken by the government, including the controversial removal of fuel subsidies. “People should stop shouting; they need to know the actual truth,” he added.
Akume outlined several initiatives aimed at mitigating the hardships faced by citizens, including the implementation of palliative measures and financial supports. “We are all aware of the N35,000 wage award for workers, which means a N30,000 minimum wage with N35,000 on top of that,” he said.
Further highlighting government actions, he mentioned the allocation of N100 billion for CNG fuel buses to reduce transportation costs and food prices, as well as N125 billion in conditional grants and financial inclusion for medium and small enterprises. Additionally, 150 billion naira in palliative loans have been provided to states to ease the impact of subsidy removal.
“We are providing 200 billion naira to support the cultivation of hectares of land, which is even more now,” Akume noted, also mentioning the imminent distribution of buses and essential commodities like rice.
Addressing the recent suspended strike by Labour, Akume condemned the shutdown of the national grid, labeling it a “treasonable offence”. He urged Labour to avoid actions that could undermine government efforts, stressing that “Treasonable felony is economic sabotage, you don’t do that. We are trying to rebuild the economy.”
Akume reaffirmed the government’s commitment not only to the new minimum wage but also to enhancing productivity and ensuring economic stability. “Our people must rise up and have something in their pockets. It is not about demanding N100,000 without productivity. We are looking at controlling inflation and ensuring a balanced economy,” he concluded.
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