Protest: NYPF decries economic hardship, insists on negotiations

By Abubakar Yunusa

Ahead of planned nationwide protest August 1, Nigerian Young Professionals’ Forum (NYPF) has urged Nigerians to explore the option of engaging the federal government on a roundtable negotiation, noting that dialogue is a virile option to resolve disputes.

Some groups across the country have fixed the date to embark on protest to draw the attention of the federal government to economic hardship, inflation and hunger many families have faced, arising from policies initiated by President Bola Tinubu who took over power May last year.

While admitting citizens’ constitutional right to protest, NYPF however says the solutions lie on engagements and negotiations.

In a release on Monday, the NYPF President, Mr. David Osadolor said the skyrocketing cost-of-living, amidst dwindling value of local currency, job losses and unstable foreign exchange is a cause for worry.

“This crisis has been exacerbated by the government’s dual policies of eliminating gasoline subsidies and unifying exchange rates, leading to unprecedented inflation and financial strain.

“Many of you, our young and vibrant professionals, have seen your jobs vanish and your businesses crumble under the weight of this economic burden. The uncertainty of the future looms over us, casting a shadow on our aspirations and dreams”, NYPF stated.

“It is your democratic right to voice your concerns and demand change. However, I urge you all to approach this demonstration with calm and peace”, it added.

The federal government though admitted that the country faces “difficult times”, it urged the promoters of the protest to shelve their plan and give it more time to improve the situation.

Recall that in response to the hardship faced by families, the federal government recently approved the release of 20 trucks to the 36 states of the country and the FCT.

Additionally, the government also reached a N70,000 minimum wage with labour as a means of alleviating the suffering Nigerian masses pass through.

“We urge the government to engage in open and honest dialogue with Nigerian youths, and with young professionals as a whole. We need urgent and decisive action to address the dire economic situation we face”, Osadolor noted.

NYPF also called on the government to cut cost of governance, reduce excessive expenditure, and lead by example, advising that constant interface with the people, reduction of third-party communication is the way to build trust.

NYPF added, “Our youth are our greatest asset. We must invest in their future by providing quality education, creating job opportunities, and fostering an environment where innovation and entrepreneurship can thrive. The government should implement policies that support small and medium-sized enterprises, as they are the backbone of our economy and the primary source of employment for our young professionals.”

It also called for constructive dialogue and collective effort to move the nation forward.