PORT HARCOURT, Nigeria — The recent announcement by President Bola Tinubu, introducing a N5 billion palliative to ease the effects of fuel subsidy removal, has been met with criticism from the Future Nigeria Movement, FNM,
a leading non-governmental organization.
The organization emphasized the pressing need to rejuvenate the nation’s dormant refineries.
Mr. Livingstone Wechie, the leader of the FNM, in his response on Saturday, August 19, 2023, questioned the government’s focus on short-term relief rather than long-term solutions.
“The government seems more inclined to offer sedatives rather than cures for our national challenges,” he commented.
Pointing out the pivotal role of the energy sector in Nigeria, Wechie explained, “The N5 billion palliative underscores the administration’s realization of the profound impact the removal of fuel subsidies has had on the citizenry. While this gesture may hint at governmental sensitivity, Nigerians genuinely desire the restoration of our state-owned refineries.”
He stressed that this should be approached with the urgency of a national emergency, adding that, “relying solely on market forces to drive the energy sector is perilous.”
The FNM’s leader urged the federal government to adopt more innovative strategies and to utilize the required competence and skills to address Nigeria’s enduring issues.
“The nation can no longer accept mere explanations. This government needs to battle the underdevelopment hindering our growth actively,” Wechie remarked.
He also highlighted the nation’s pressing need to transition from a consumer-centric economy to one focused on manufacturing.
Wechie urged the government to seek partnerships and blueprints essential for reviving Nigeria’s national assets and emphasized the importance of a deliberate policy to stimulate a target-driven private sector economy.
With regards to the N5 billion palliative, the FNM recommended stringent oversight of the funds’ distribution by state governors.
Wechie proposed the involvement of civil society organizations to ensure accountability and transparency in the disbursement process.
“The funds should primarily be directed towards transportation infrastructure, especially concerning the transport of agricultural products,” he advised.
This would promote the efficient movement of goods and individuals across states, allowing society’s most affected sectors to benefit from the government’s relief efforts genuinely.
Wechie emphasised the necessity for a competent, skillful, and patriotic administration, stating, “While the palliative might be well-intentioned, it’s merely a temporary relief that doesn’t address the root issues. We need solutions, not just sedatives.”
