Current hardship result of necessary policy decisions – FG
The SGF, Sen. George Akume
Published By: Kazeem Ugbodaga
By Okon Okon
The Federal Government has acknowledged the significant economic challenges facing Nigerians and is actively working to mitigate their impact.
Sen. George Akume, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), made this declaration on Thursday during a World Press Conference in Abuja, aimed at highlighting activities to commemorate Nigeria’s 64th Independence Anniversary.
The anniversary, themed “Reflecting on the Past, Inspiring the Future,” will feature various events throughout the week.
Sen. Akume attributed the current hardships to necessary policy decisions, particularly the removal of fuel subsidies, a measure the administration deemed essential.
He emphasized, “This government, under President Bola Tinubu, is acutely aware of and deeply empathizes with all Nigerians regarding the economic conditions we are enduring. These challenges stem from unavoidable policy choices, including the removal of fuel subsidies.”
Despite these challenges, Akume reassured citizens that the government is diligently implementing the Renewed Hope Agenda to alleviate immediate difficulties and foster new opportunities in the short, medium, and long term.
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“The administration is committed to creating policies and programmes that provide long-term solutions to these pressing issues,” he added.
“Under President Tinubu’s leadership, we anticipate a positive trajectory in socio-economic development in the near future.”
He highlighted rising food prices as a significant concern for Nigerians, noting that the government has learned valuable lessons from the current economic climate and has stepped up planning and preventive measures.
“To enhance food security and ensure the affordability of food, the government has eliminated tariffs on the importation of specific food categories. Additionally, we have distributed fertilizers, farming inputs, and other critical resources to boost food production,” Akume stated.
In outlining the anniversary programmes, the SGF announced several key events, including a Special Juma’at Prayer on Friday, September 27, at the National Mosque at 1:00 p.m., and an Inter-denominational Church Service on Sunday, September 29, at the National Christian Centre, also at 1:00 p.m.
Further activities include a Presidential Broadcast on Tuesday, October 1, at 7:00 a.m., followed by the Independence Anniversary Parade at the Presidential Villa at 10:00 a.m. on the same day.