From Godwin Tsa, Abuja
The National Youth Organization (NYO) has called on President Bola Tinubu and the 36 state governors to work towards reducing their cost of governance, not only in the reduction of pecks of office but also the retinue of appointees.
Addressing reporters in Abuja, the Nigeria Youth Organization (NYO) said the government needs to look beyond politics now and reduce the cost of governance.
NYO National President Alamboye Duke called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to prune the government spending including streamlining ministerial, commissioner, and adviser portfolio to sizeable numbers with a particular call to abolish the minister for state position and cut down on their luxurious convoy.
While appealing to the youths to shelve the planned protest and embrace dialogue, Duke urged President Tinubu to put measures to checkmate government activities and promote cost-effective governance at federal, state and local government amongst public officeholders with the overall goal of reducing the cost of governance in Nigeria.”
He also advocated for the streamlining of the list of cabinet ministers (for the federal government) to a sizable number with complete abolishing or merger of ministries and some parastatals.
NYO equally called on state governors to reduce/cut down the list of commissioners and appointment of advisers to a sizable number to reduce the cost of governance, urging political/public office holders to cut down on the barrage of convoys/entourages.
Beyond the call for the reduction in the cost of governance, the group urged the government to take immediate and strategic actions to address the root causes of the prevailing hardship.
Specifically, the group recommend the reviving of our refineries to ensure the efficient operations of our refineries to reduce dependency on imported fuel and stabilize local fuel prices.
Supporting agriculture by investing in agricultural initiatives to boost food security, reduce hunger, and create employment opportunities.
Alleviating poverty and stimulating local production and manufacturing.
Duke added: “In the light of the national challenges facing our nation, the Nigerian Youth Organization has been in extensive consultations with key stakeholders regarding the proposed protest by Nigerian youths. After careful consideration and deliberation, we are advocating that the planned protests should not be held.
“We deeply empathize with and appreciate the concerns of those who support the protest. The grievances raised are legitimate and reflect the severe hardships currently endured by many Nigerians.
“However, we believe that engaging in peaceful dialogue with the government is a more constructive and safer approach at this critical juncture. Past experiences, such as the “End SARS” protests, have shown that well-intentioned demonstrations can be highjacked by elements with ulterior motives, leading to undesirable outcomes and security challenges.”
Also in attendance at the press conference was Egnr. China Kafor South-East coordinator of NYO, Hajiya Fatima Usman (NYO North); Aare Oladotun Hassan, president Yoruba Council Worldwide and Amanda Msughter, deputy coordinator, of NYO.