Nigeria’s First Lady, Mrs. Oluremi Tinubu, has called on Nigerians to reconsider the nationwide protests scheduled from August 1-10, 2024.
Reflecting on the impact of the #EndSARS protests in 2020, Mrs. Tinubu warned against potential disruptions that could exacerbate the challenges faced by many Nigerians. She appealed to the youth to leverage opportunities within the country, highlighting the administration’s commitment to economic growth and stability.
“But I pray that they (protesters) would reconsider and don’t make life difficult for those who are still having quite a challenging life,” Mrs. Tinubu said. “We didn’t come here playing. We came here to work because I know we will leave this place one day, and I want to go to a Nigeria that will not be a burden to me.”
The planned protests, tagged #EndBadGovernance, aim to address the rising cost of living and have gained significant traction on social media. However, the First Lady called for patience and collaboration, urging protest organizers to reconsider their stance.
“If they’re trying to be disruptive, then it is left between them and the law…What people don’t realise is that when we’re drumming for things (protests) like this, we don’t know the backlash and what will happen after,” she added.
Mrs. Tinubu highlighted Nigeria’s growing respect on the international stage, pointing to increased interest from international partners in legitimate business opportunities. She encouraged the youth to be proactive and innovative, emphasizing the importance of creativity in driving economic growth.
“This government has been working day and night to make sure that this country is put back on its feet. What Nigerians don’t know is that…you see, the respect we have now as Nigerians in the international community is higher than what we’ve had in the past,” she noted.
Citing the entrepreneurial spirit displayed during the COVID-19 pandemic, Mrs. Tinubu underscored the vast opportunities available within Nigeria. She called for increased youth involvement in agriculture as part of the Renewed Hope Initiative, promoting a culture of farming among young Nigerians.
“You can grow what you eat. We’re taking this to the young people now so they can embrace this culture,” she stated.
The First Lady also announced various initiatives under the Renewed Hope Initiative, including a N50,000 grant to petty traders to support small businesses, the AUDA-NEPAD/RHI Scholarship Programme, and the RHI Women Economic Empowerment Programme, which will provide grants to women across the country.
The meeting concluded with a moment of silence in honor of the late music icon, Onyeka Onwenu, led by Mrs. Tinubu and the Governors’ Wives.
