A former APC chairman in the Scandinavian countries, Mr Ayoola Lawal-Odunewu, says President Bola Tinubu’s speech in the wake of ongoing nationwide protests is candid.
By Chioma Ugboma
A former APC chairman in the Scandinavian countries, Mr Ayoola Lawal-Odunewu, says President Bola Tinubu’s speech in the wake of ongoing nationwide protests is candid.
Lawal-Odunewu, the immediate past secretary of the APC Committee of Diaspora Chairmen, said this in a telephone interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), on Sunday.
NAN reports that President Tinubu’s nationwide broadcast on Sunday is in reaction to calls that he addresses the nation on issues raised by organisers of the ongoing nationwide protest.
NAN also reports that the protest, which began on Aug. 1, is expected to end on Aug. 10.
Lawal-Odunewu, who lauded the President for his listening ears, described the speech as empathetic and responsible approach that underscored genuine commitment to the Nigerian people.
“Many of us in the diaspora listened to the speech. It recognised the grievances of the youth and general populace, while also detailing the government’s significant economic and social reforms.
He commended the President’s heartfelt condolences to families of those who lost their lives during the protests, acknowledging the painful reality that such losses and resultant destruction of property hindered on national progress.
“The call for halting further protests to allow for dialogue is a wise and prudent measure, as dialogue remains crucial in any democratic society.
“The President’s willingness to engage with protesters is highly commendable.”
Lawal-Odunewu noted that the present administration was making huge efforts to stabilise the economy and implement necessary reforms.
He cited the removal of fuel subsidies and abolition of multiple foreign exchange systems as bold, yet essential steps, to combat long-standing greed and corruption.
“These measures, though initially challenging, are beginning to yield positive results such as increased government revenues, reduced debt servicing and improved financial freedom.
Lawal-Odunewu praised the President’s vision of a just and prosperous Nigeria, where peace, freedom and meaningful livelihoods would be accessible to all.
He acknowledged various government initiatives like the Compressed Natural Gas, Student Loan Scheme, Consumer Credit Corporation and Youth Empowerment among others, as crucial steps toward sustainable growth and development.
“However, there is need for better public dissemination of information regarding these achievements. The success of government programmes and policies rely heavily on citizen awareness and understanding.
“Improved communication strategies will ensure the benefits of these initiatives are widely known and accessible, fostering inclusivity and participation.”
He urged Nigerians to support the efforts and engage constructively in national development initiatives, envisioning a brighter and more prosperous future for the nation.
“It is now mandatory for us to start holding our governors and local government area chairmen accountable if we truly desire the dividends of democracy of this administration,” he added. (NAN)
