Dr. Dominic Joshua, the Chief Executive Officer of Cultivate Africa, a prominent entrepreneur and investment expert, called on Nigerians to exercise patience and restraint amidst ongoing protests.
Joshua, in a statement on Sunday, emphasised the need to support Tinubu’s administration, which he described as exceptionally responsive and committed to driving positive change in the country.
Joshua reminded the public of the devastating consequences of the EndSARS protest, which led to significant destruction of businesses and infrastructure, saying, “The negative consequences of the EndSARS protest are still fresh in our memories. We must avoid any actions that could lead to further destruction.”
On Thursday, the Youths started a nationwide 10 days protest to express their pleasure against the economic crisis and bad governance in the country.
President Bola Tinubu stated in a national broadcast on Sunday, “Under the circumstances, I hereby enjoin protesters and the organisers to suspend any further protest and create room for dialogue, which I have always acceded to at the slightest opportunity.
“Nigeria requires all hands on deck and needs us all—regardless of age, party, tribe, religion or other divides, to work together in reshaping our destiny as a nation. To those who have taken undue advantage of this situation to threaten any section of this country, be warned: The law will catch up with you. There is no place for ethnic bigotry or such threats in the Nigeria we seek to build.”
Meanwhile, Joshua highlighted the recent measures taken by the Federal Government to alleviate economic pressures, such as the suspension of import duties and taxes on essential food items to address hunger.
He recalled that the Federal Government had instructed the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited to sell crude oil to the Dangote oil refinery in naira to strengthen the currency and stimulate the local economy.
“The removal of fuel subsidies and unification of the naira’s exchange rate are bold steps aimed at reducing corruption and fiscal strain while attracting private sector investment. The 2023 Electricity Act was signed into law to decentralise electricity generation and distribution, empowering states to set up their own electricity markets. The Siemens Power project has also been accelerated to improve power assets in Nigeria.
“Initiatives such as distributing 42,000 metric tonnes of grains and promoting dry season farming have injected significant funds into the economy and created jobs in the agricultural sector.
“The Renewed Hope Infrastructure Development Fund focuses on critical sectors such as roads, rail, agriculture, ports, and aviation. Noteworthy projects include the construction of a second runway at Abuja’s airport and the reactivation of a second runway in Lagos,” he stated
He commended the repositioning of the National Social Investment Programme to deliver more value directly to beneficiaries and the enactment of student loans.
“Let’s not allow hooligans to hijack protests and destroy lives and properties. We need to give President Tinubu a chance to implement his vision. His government is one of the most responsive we’ve ever had. Let’s support Asiwaju Bola Tinubu in driving the positive change we all desire,” he concluded.
