TEXT OF ADDRESS DELIVERED ON JULY 20TH, 2024 BY THE CHIEF HOST OF THE RENEWED HOPE GLOBAL VIRTUAL TOWN HALL CONFERENCE, J.K. ADEBOLA ESQ, AT THE WORLD PRESS CONFERENCE ON MAINTAINING THE PEACE | SOUTHWEST FIRST ALERT MAGAZINE
Ladies and Gentlemen,
Distinguished Guests & Participants,
Members of the Fourth Estate,
Fellow Nigerians,
Call for Calm and Civic-Mindedness
1. We come together today with a powerful message of unity, hope, and patriotism, ready to face these challenging times with strength and resolve. We are acutely aware of the growing calls on social media for violent protests, destruction, and rising discontent among our citizens. However, we urge all Nigerians at home and in the Diaspora to shun any form of protest that could destroy our beloved nation or be hijacked by unscrupulous elements.
2. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's administration, in office for just a year, deeply understands the hardships many Nigerians face. The President and his cabinet are tirelessly working around the clock to address these challenges. We feel your pain, understand your frustrations, and are dedicated to alleviating your hardships. In this spirit, we have made some tough decisions to reshape our nation for sustainability and the benefit of future generations.
3. In just one year, the Tinubu administration has achieved significant strides in various sectors:
a. Economic Reforms - The administration has introduced key economic reforms, both monetary and fiscal, to stabilise the economy and attract foreign investment, leading to a more robust and resilient economic framework.
b. Infrastructure Development - Significant progress has been made in infrastructure projects, including completing major road networks and initiating new projects that will enhance connectivity and boost economic activities.
c. Food Security - Efforts to enhance food security are well underway, with initiatives to support local farmers, increase agricultural productivity, and ensure that food supply chains remain uninterrupted. One such initiative is granting a few waivers for imports as a short-term measure to address galloping food price inflation.
4. These achievements and many more in other sectors, such as education, trade and investments, aviation, security, agriculture and more, are just the beginning of even greater things to come. The administration is focused on implementing robust measures to provide financial assistance to those in need, deliver critical infrastructure projects, and enhance food security nationwide. We ask for your patience and support as these initiatives take time to materialise and bear fruit. As we gradually emerge from the tunnel into the light, we urge all Nigerians not to be swayed by those who would lead us into chaos, thereby undoing our progress thus far.
5. We want to assure you that every effort is being made to address the issues at hand. The government is engaging with various local and international stakeholders to ensure that resources are allocated efficiently and that the benefits reach every Nigerian.
6. We appeal to all Nigerians to support their leaders at the sub-national level and work collaboratively with them. Constructive dialogue and peaceful cooperation are essential as we navigate these difficult times. Let us remember that our strength lies in our unity, and together, we can overcome any challenge. On our part, we have been working diligently to encourage constructive engagement with government officials on our highly-subscribed virtual platform and will continue these efforts. We extend our gratitude to President Tinubu, his cabinet, and officials for responding positively to our numerous invitations to engage with Nigerians worldwide.
7. The Tinubu administration is also prioritising education and healthcare, recognising that these sectors are the bedrock of any thriving society. Significant investments are being made to improve educational facilities, provide better teacher training, and ensure our children receive the quality education they deserve. In healthcare, efforts are ongoing to build and upgrade medical facilities, ensure the availability of essential medicines, and support our healthcare professionals.
8. Furthermore, the government, under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, is dedicated to creating an environment where businesses can thrive. By reducing bureaucratic hurdles and creating more opportunities for entrepreneurship, we aim to empower Nigerians to drive innovation and economic growth. Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are the backbone of our economy, and their success is vital to our nation's prosperity.
9. We are a resilient nation with a history of overcoming adversity. Let us uphold the spirit of patriotism and work hand in glove to build the Nigeria we all envision. The administration is committed to making significant strides in improving the quality of life for all Nigerians, and with your support, we shall succeed.
10. In closing, it is profoundly disheartening and counterproductive when certain individuals, including online self-aggrandising influencers and cyberbullies driven by political bitterness after electoral losses, choose to stir up our divisions, denigrate our great country, Nigeria and wish it ill. Such behaviour not only undermines the spirit of democracy but also stalls collective progress. The essence of a truly democratic society is grounded in constructive opposition that aims to uplift rather than destabilise. Those who indulge in wishing failure and destruction upon their nation out of spite or disappointment betray the very principles of patriotism and civic responsibility.
11. As we continue to navigate the path towards growth and stability, all citizens must rally behind the collective good, regardless of political affiliation and champion Nigeria's success as a unified front. In doing so, we honour the democratic process and contribute to our nation's enduring strength and prosperity.
12. Thank you for your understanding, patience, and cooperation.
God Bless The Federal Republic of Nigeria.
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