The Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), George Akume, has provided assurance to Nigerians that the government is actively working on measures to alleviate the challenges posed by the recent increase in the price of petrol.
Following the removal of petrol subsidy, the commodity’s price has surged from about N190 per litre to between N600 and N700, leading to public discontent. President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of the subsidy’s removal sparked a backlash. However, Akume asserts that the government is not turning a blind eye to the concerns raised.
“As our team takes shape, I want to remind you all that @officialABAT came prepared – he came with a plan. He knows what to do & he is doing it. He has nurtured this vision for decades and he is now bringing it to life,” Akume tweeted on Sunday.
Addressing the fuel price increases, he assured the public that the government is working tirelessly to implement solutions that will alleviate the hardship. He emphasized that the government’s ultimate goal is to improve citizens’ quality of life.
Discussing the subsidy regime, Akume described it as “regressive” and highlighted the need for its end. He pointed out that the country could no longer sustain the colossal annual subsidy payments of $11 billion, which were attributed to inefficiencies in the oil and gas value chain. President Buhari acted decisively to address this issue from the onset, according to Akume.
While urging patience from Nigerians, he emphasized that the government is actively developing strategies to normalize pricing through market forces and implement policies that will enhance citizens’ lives and economic prospects. Akume reassured the public of the government’s clear economic restoration plan and called for trust in the ongoing process.
