Hon. Bello Mohammed Matawalle, the former Governor of Zamfara State and current Minister of State for Defense, in a recent address to his supporters in Gusau, the capital of Zamfara State emphatically stated that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's policies are not against northern interests.
This declaration comes amidst growing concerns and criticisms from various quarters regarding the perceived regional bias in the administration's policy decisions.
Matawalle, during his six-day visit to Zamfara State, reassured the public of the federal government's commitment to the unification of Nigeria. He urged northerners not to be swayed by individuals who oppose the country's unity, emphasizing that the administration is dedicated to fostering national cohesion.
"None of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s policies are against northern interests," he asserted, highlighting the administration's efforts to bridge regional divides and promote inclusivity.
The minister acknowledged the economic challenges currently facing Nigeria but expressed optimism about the future. He assured Nigerians that the federal government is making concerted efforts to reposition the country's economy, which has been grappling with significant hardships.
"The federal government is not happy with the current economic hardships facing Nigerians. We are working tirelessly to address the situation," Matawalle stated, urging citizens to remain patient and hopeful.
He further disclosed that the federal government had initiated welfare efforts to alleviate the economic burden on citizens. As part of these efforts, many trailers of rice have been brought into Zamfara State for distribution to its residents.
These measures, according to Matawalle, are indicative of the government's commitment to addressing the immediate needs of the populace while working towards long-term economic stability.
Matawalle also highlighted the inherited challenges faced by President Tinubu's administration, noting that the government is actively seeking solutions to these longstanding issues. He called on Nigerians to continue fervent prayers for divine intervention, emphasizing the power of collective prayer in overcoming national challenges.
"We are optimistic that there is light at the end of the tunnel," he remarked, encouraging citizens to maintain faith in the government's ability to navigate the country through its current difficulties.
Despite the assurances from Matawalle, the Tinubu administration has faced criticism over certain economic reforms, particularly the removal of fuel subsidies and the floating of the naira. These policies, while aimed at correcting decades of economic mismanagement, have led to massive inflationary pressures, exacerbating the cost of living crisis in Nigeria. Food inflation reached a staggering 40.9 percent in June 2024, with overall inflation hitting 34.2 percent, marking one of the worst economic periods in nearly three decades.
Critics argue that the abrupt removal of fuel subsidies, without adequate compensatory measures, has disproportionately affected the poor, pushing millions deeper into poverty. The subsidy, which had served as a crucial lifeline for many Nigerians, was removed under the premise of redirecting funds towards public infrastructure and improving citizens' lives. However, more than a year later, there has been little transparency regarding how the saved funds are being utilized, leading to public outrage and protests.
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