Many Nigerians are struggling with poverty due to the cost of living rising significantly. Vice-President Kashim Shettima acknowledged this during the graduation ceremony of the Executive Intelligence Management Course 16 participants in Abuja.
He expressed concern about the anger of the poor towards government officials and the elite.
The economic challenges intensified after President Bola Tinubu took office, abolishing petrol subsidies, leading to a sharp increase in fuel prices.
The decision to allow the naira’s exchange rate to fluctuate against major currencies further contributed to economic difficulties, resulting in a significant depreciation of the local currency.
The naira hit an all-time low of N1,099.05/$ at the official forex window, marking a 30.36% decline from its previous rate.
This has contributed to inflation, making it tough for many families to celebrate Christmas and New Year comfortably.
Vice-President Shettima emphasized the need for improved governance, job creation, and providing hope to address insecurity in the country.
“People (used to) go and see not out of anger, but out of admiration. But now, as we cruise around in our bulletproof cars, one will see contempt in the eyes of the poor. We have to improve the quality of governance. And what we have is a tiny window of not more than 10 to 20 years. Let’s improve the quality of governance.”
He urged citizens to be patient and support President Tinubu’s efforts to reposition Nigeria. Shettima criticized those advocating for the country’s breakup, stating that they often don’t consider the broader consequences.
At the same event, the Director-General of the Department of State Services, Yusuf Bichi, announced plans for the agency to produce unmanned aerial vehicles and AK-47s domestically, reducing reliance on foreign sources.
He assured support for training programs and emphasized the importance of self-sufficiency in weapons production.
Bichi urged residents of Plateau and Kaduna states to turn hostilities into job opportunities for the overall development and security of the nation.
He said “We have seen that it happens in so many places. The Kanuri and Fulani turn their hostilities into jobs. Kano and Zaira also did. So, please do that and save the nation from disaster, because there is no point that from 1991 to date and at the interval of four years you are having ethno-religious conflicts.
He also encouraged Nigerians to avoid disparaging their leaders, emphasizing the potential for positive change through patience and constructive dialogue.
