The August 1 protest and government’s Response

On August 1, 2024, the streets of the nation were alive with the voices of its youth, echoing their demands for better governance, job opportunities and a more inclusive political process. 

The protest was a significant moment in the nation’s democratic journey. The protest was largely driven by the youth, who constitute a significant portion of the nation’s population. 

Frustrated by high unemployment rates, limited economic opportunities and perceived corruption within the government, they took to the streets to demand change.

In the wake of the protest, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mr Mohammed Idris, acknowledged the grievances of the youth and emphasized federal government’s commitment to addressing their concerns. 

The minister highlighted several measures that were being implemented to ensure the smooth running of the nation and to foster a more inclusive and prosperous society.

One of the key measures announced was a series of economic reforms aimed at creating job opportunities and stimulating economic growth. 

The government pledged to invest in sectors such as technology, agriculture and manufacturing, which have the potential to generate employment for the youth. Additionally, initiatives to support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) were introduced, recognizing their role in driving economic development.

To address the skills gap and prepare the youth for the job market, the government announced new programmes focused on education and skill development. These programmes are designed to provide young people with the necessary training and education to compete in a rapidly changing global economy. 

Recognizing the demand for a more inclusive political process, the government promised to implement reforms that would allow for greater youth participation in politics. This includes lowering the age limit for political office and creating platforms for young people to engage with policymakers. 

The government also committed to increasing transparency and accountability in governance to rebuild trust with the youth.

The government also announced the expansion of social welfare programmes to support vulnerable populations, including the youth. 

This includes increased funding for healthcare, housing and social services aimed at creating a safety net for those in need and ensure that all citizens have access to basic necessities.

“The President has listened to the voices of all those who are planning this protest. And the message is that there is no need for it. Indeed, the President is already protesting on their behalf by doing those things that they want a government to do. For example, the effort that government is making, in ensuring that food is being made available. 

“The last Council meeting here at the briefing, we announced that a number of trucks 20 precisely had been given to the state governors for onward distribution to those who actually are in need of them to poorest of the poor in society and those who are actually in need.

“But government did not stop there, there is also rice that is being sold at about 50% of its cost, a bag of rice is being sold as we speak now. This rice have been taken to various centers across all the states of the Federation, and is being sold at 40,000 Naira centers have been created. So that those who need this rice can go there and buy this rice at N40,000.

“In the first instance, about 10 trucks have been made available to each of these states and indeed, this is just the beginning, I know that some of the comments you hear is that it is never enough. 

“Government has not pretended that this supplies are indeed enough. But these are necessary first steps that are being made and more of such interventions are being made in the interim. 

“Of course, this is like I said an interim measure because there is so much investment that is going into the agricultural sector. And the rainy season is here. We expect that the prices of food items will come down as investments are also being made not just for the traditional Agricultural Produce, but also for the irrigation activities in many of these states in the Federation,” the minister said.

Throughout his address, the Minister of Information and National Orientation emphasized the importance of dialogue between the government and the citizens . He called for an open and constructive conversation to address the issues raised by the protestors and to find a common ground.

The government’s response, as outlined by Minister of Information Mohammed Idris Malagi, reflects a commitment to addressing the concerns of the youth and ensuring the smooth running of the nation. While challenges remain, the measures put in place signal a positive step towards a more inclusive and prosperous society.

There were also national security efforts to address the economic hardship protests. The National Security Adviser (NSA) Nuhu Ribadu engaged in strategic discussions with key government figures, including the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), ministers,m and members of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum. Ribadu highlighted the urgent need for enhanced security measures and proactive communication strategies among security agencies to manage potential unrest effectively. 

He emphasized the critical role of addressing public sentiment and the influential power of social media in shaping opinions. 

Recognizing the seriousness of the situation, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu launched three distinct engagements aimed at persuading the protesters. He convened meetings with governors elected on the All Progressives Congress (APC) platform, traditional rulers and religious leaders (Ulamas). 

In his meeting with traditional rulers, President Tinubu underscored the nation’s gradual economic recovery and reassured citizens of his administration’s commitment to addressing their needs. 

He acknowledged the challenges inherited from his predecessor and stressed his dedication to addressing them with sincerity and honesty.

President Tinubu outlined various initiatives aimed at bridging the gap between the government and the people, including the student loan program, consumer credit schemes and fiscal autonomy for local government councils. 

He highlighted the importance of infrastructural development, referencing projects like the Lagos-Calabar coastal road aimed at creating economic opportunities and enhancing energy generation through wind and irrigation projects. 

The President also acknowledged the ongoing need for security improvements, emphasizing that while progress had been made, continued vigilance was essential to prevent any resurgence of violence. He reaffirmed his commitment to clarifying economic reforms and maintaining open dialogue for national development.

In his address to the Ulamas, President Tinubu stressed the importance of educating the youth on responsible citizenship and the dangers of protests driven by anger and hate. He announced plans to revamp the social welfare scheme to reach grassroots levels, providing monetary support for education and consumer credit to boost purchasing power and stimulate the economy. 

Demonstrating his commitment to addressing public grievances, President Tinubu swiftly signed a N70,000 minimum wage bill into law following its passage by the National Assembly.

The government’s ongoing appeals and concrete actions helped reduce the scale and intensity of the protests. 

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Government’s comprehensive response, encompassing legislative actions, public appeals and infrastructural project shows a commitment to addressing the issues that necessitated the protests. 

Therefore, it is crucial for the government and the protesters to engage in constructive dialogues and work together to build a better future. Maintaining dialogue, implementing reforms and providing tangible support are essential to restoring stability and fostering long-term development.