Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, Nigeria’s Minister of Defence, has called on organizers of the proposed #EndBadGovernanceInNigeria protest to reconsider their plans and instead engage in dialogue with the Federal Government.
The protest, scheduled for August 1, aims to address perceived governance issues in the country.
In a statement signed by Henshaw Ogubike, Director of Information and Public Relations for the ministry, Abubakar emphasized that President Tinubu’s reforms are beginning to bear fruit, particularly in economic recovery and security improvements.
“There is a serious improvement in security as most of the roads and highways previously closed due to insecurity have been reopened. Herders and farmers’ clashes have been resolved with the creation of the Livestock Ministry, enabling many farmers to return to their fields,” he stated.
The minister highlighted several key reforms, including the Nigerian Student Loan Scheme, which aims to increase access to higher education and alleviate the financial burden on students.
He also noted the Renewed Hope Infrastructure Development Fund (RHIDF), which has significantly boosted funding for infrastructure projects such as roads, railways, and energy systems.
Abubakar pointed out that the introduction of selling crude oil to indigenous refining companies in Naira and the signing of the National Minimum Wage Act into law are further efforts to stabilize the economy. He described these measures as “robust efforts” by President Tinubu to enhance the welfare of Nigerian workers.
While acknowledging the democratic right to protest, the Defence Minister warned against using the protest to cause disruption, stating that it is “poorly timed given the positive turnaround in the economy.”
He urged the public to focus on dialogue as a means of resolving concerns, highlighting the government’s commitment to addressing issues and improving the lives of Nigerians.