Dr. Emmanuel Ahmadu, a Nigerian who overcame 17 failed attempts at the West African Senior School Certificate Examination, has urged the government to prioritize sustainable policies to combat poverty and lower the cost of living.
In a telephone interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Monday in Lagos, Dr. Ahmadu, recently awarded two honorary doctorate degrees in the U.S., offered his insights.
Responding to the ongoing nationwide protests, Dr. Ahmadu commended the government’s efforts and emphasized the need for effective measures to address the root causes of public dissatisfaction.
“The efforts in addressing this protest are commendable, but we urge you to go the extra mile in addressing these concerns.
“I also urge the government to look beyond the distractions that often accompany protests, and genuinely engage with the core issues raised.
“Together, we can build a more prosperous and just Nigeria,” he said.
Ahmadu, however, urged the protesting youths to embrace dialogue.
“Your voices are powerful and necessary in driving the change we all aspire to see.
“It is crucial to remain peaceful and focus, ensuring that your actions reflect the strength of your convictions.
“Time to dialogue with the government has come,” he said.
NAN reports that the President in his broadcast on Sunday on the nationwide protest reiterated his government’s commitment to listening and addressing the concerns of the citizens.
The President had enjoined the protesters, and the organisers to suspend any further protest and create room for dialogue, which he said he had always acceded to at the slightest opportunity.
NAN also reports that the protest, which started on Thursday, crippled socio-economic activities in some states as motor parks, shops, malls, markets and roads were deserted.
The first day of the protest recorded violence and looting in some states such as Niger, Kaduna, Jigawa and Abuja among others.
The protest with the hashtag #EndBadGovernanceinNigeria is planned to end on 10 August.
It is aimed at calling the Federal Government’s attention to the economic hardship being faced by Nigerians.