First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has called on Nigerians to reconsider their planned nationwide protests, highlighting the unpredictable consequences such actions might bring.
Senator Tinubu emphasized that President Bola Tinubu’s administration is diligently working to restore the nation’s former glory.
She encouraged Nigerian youths to engage creatively and take advantage of the opportunities the government is creating to revitalize the economy and enhance Nigeria’s international standing.
Speaking at the presidential villa in Abuja after a meeting with state governors’ wives and Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI) coordinators, Mrs. Tinubu expressed concern over the protests’ potential impact on small businesses and petty traders.
She urged organizers to consider the welfare of struggling Nigerians, stressing the government’s efforts to foster a supportive environment for all citizens.
She remarked, “Lagos has not recovered from #EndSARS. We must understand the potential backlash of such actions. These protests can be highly disruptive, and I appeal for patience. We are here to work towards a better Nigeria, not to play.”
Mrs. Tinubu highlighted the government’s initiatives to support small businesses, such as providing N50,000 grants to petty traders. “We’ve done this before and saw positive results. Please, don’t obstruct the daily lives of those who depend on their small businesses for survival,” she urged.
She noted the administration’s efforts since taking office to create opportunities for Nigerians, emphasizing the enhanced international respect Nigeria now enjoys. She called on Nigerian youths to seize these opportunities and engage in productive activities.
“This government is working tirelessly to put Nigeria back on its feet. Our international respect has increased, attracting legitimate business interests that will create jobs. Our youth must be creative and proactive,” she said.
Mrs. Tinubu also discussed various new initiatives, including her Young Farmers Club, aimed at preparing citizens for the future. “We need to encourage good initiatives now. Our efforts in the past, like the ‘Spelling Bee’ competition, took time to yield results. Similarly, our current initiatives require patience and nurturing,” she explained.
During the meeting, Mrs. Tinubu updated attendees on RHI’s progress in education, health, and agriculture through collaborations with various federal ministries and organizations.
She announced the launch of the Renewed Hope Initiative Women Economic Empowerment Programme for Petty Traders on August 22, 2024, which will provide N50,000 grants to 1,000 women in each state and the FCT.
Additionally, she mentioned the unveiling of 200 awardees under the AUDA-NEPAD/RHI Scholarship Programme on August 1, 2024.
She urged states to promptly submit their lists of beneficiaries for the economic empowerment program to ensure the initiatives reach those in need.
Before the meeting commenced, the First Lady called for a minute of silence in memory of the late Ms. Onyeka Onwenu, honoring her contributions as a musician, journalist, actress, and activist.
