Prince Shuaibu Audu, the Minister of Steel Development, has called on Nigerians to suspend the ongoing nationwide protest, dubbed ‘Endbadgovernance,’ and to instead engage in dialogue to address their concerns. The protest, which began on August 1 and is set to conclude on August 10, was organized in response to various challenges facing the country.
In a statement issued by his Special Assistant on Media, Mrs. Lizzy Okoji, on Saturday in Abuja, Audu urged Nigerians to trust the efforts of President Bola Tinubu’s administration, which is working diligently to resolve the nation’s difficulties. He emphasized that the administration’s policies and strategic plans are designed to lead Nigeria towards economic prosperity, improved welfare, better education, and strengthened healthcare systems.
Audu assured the public that their desire for good governance would be realized before the end of the administration’s first term. He highlighted several key initiatives, including the recent implementation of a N70,000 minimum wage for workers, the introduction of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) vehicles to reduce transportation costs by 70%, and the disbursement of N50,000 uplift grants to over 100,000 families per state for three months.
The minister also mentioned the government’s efforts to lower food prices, with 250,000 metric tonnes of wheat and maize being imported to support small-scale processors and millers. Additionally, he noted the president’s directive to redesign the Basic Health Care Provision Fund to improve access to quality and affordable healthcare services.
In the steel sector, ongoing reforms aimed at reviving steel plants are expected to create over 500,000 direct and indirect jobs while attracting Foreign Direct Investment to diversify the economy.
Audu urged an end to the protest, warning that it has been hijacked by miscreants, leading to a breakdown of law and order in various parts of the country. He commended the people of Kogi State for choosing dialogue and collaboration with the All Progressives Congress (APC)-led government instead of participating in the protest.
