News
ActionAid Nigeria Demands Immediate Action on Fuel Price Increases, Calls for Economic Reform
ActionAid Nigeria Demands Immediate Action on Fuel Price Increases, Calls for Economic Reform
By: Michael Mike
ActionAid Nigeria has condemned the latest hike in pump price of petroleum products, demanding immediate action from the government on economic reform
The Non Governmental Organisation said increasing the minimum wage from N30,000 to N70,000 was never enough to bring economic succour
ActionAid, in a statement on Wednesday signed by its Country Director, Andrew Mamedu asked that: “The Federal Government must prioritise the welfare of Nigerian Citizens over revenue generation and provide a comprehensive plan to protect vulnerable citizens and support small businesses within 48 hours. This plan must include measures to mitigate the impact of high fuel prices on the poor and vulnerable.”
Mamedu lamented that: “Since President Bola Ahmed Tinubu assumed office in May 2023, the removal of fuel subsidies has led to a harsh economic reality for many Nigerians. Despite efforts to recover, the Federal Government’s decision to allow fuel prices to surge again has worsened the situation, leading to a ripple effect on the economy.
“In May 2023, just before President Tinubu’s inauguration, petrol prices were already high at N185 per litre, causing widespread discontent among Nigerians due to the accompanying high cost of goods. However, on his first day in office, fuel prices skyrocketed to N500 per litre, leading to a sharp surge in the prices of essential commodities.
“Since then, fuel prices have continued to rise steadily. By August 2023, it reached N626.70 and continued to fluctuate, surmounting N668.3 in January 2024 and N770.54 in July 2024. As of September 2024, it has increased again to a staggering N897 per litre, which greatly worsens the situation for many Nigerians.”
He noted that: “Clearly, Nigeria’s fuel pricing is heavily influenced by the dollar-to-naira exchange rate due to the country’s reliance on imported fuel, which is denominated in US dollars (USD). Consequently, a depreciation of the naira against the dollar leads to higher fuel import costs, resulting in increased prices at the pump as well.
“This direct correlation between exchange rates and fuel prices makes Nigeria’s fuel pricing vulnerable to exchange rate fluctuations. Any changes in the dollar-to-naira rate will have a ripple effect on fuel import costs, ultimately impacting the prices consumers pay at the pump, and highlighting the need for a more stable exchange rate to mitigate the volatility in fuel pricing.”
He added that: “It is one thing to fix an impending problem of inflation in the economy, and it is another thing to provide temporary solutions to keep the mouths of Nigerians shut. Although the minimum wage has increased from N30,000 to N70,000, it fails to address the root causes of inflation and does little to alleviate the suffering of Nigerians, who continue to bear the brunt of skyrocketing commodity prices, particularly fuel costs. We need a comprehensive and sustainable solution, not just a quick fix to silence the masses.”
On the latest increase, Mamedu said: “ActionAid Nigeria strongly condemns this development, which will push millions of Nigerians deeper into poverty. We demand transparency in fuel pricing, including a clear breakdown of costs and revenues associated with fuel imports, refining, and distribution. The Federal Government must provide a detailed explanation of the fuel pricing mechanism to ensure accountability and trust.
“To address the root causes of this crisis, we also demand the establishment of an independent committee to monitor fuel pricing and ensure transparency. This committee must include representatives from civil society, the private sector, and government agencies. Additionally, the Federal Government must invest in Nigerian refineries and provide targeted support to vulnerable citizens and small businesses affected by fuel price increases.”
He said: “Concurrently, the Federal Government must implement a comprehensive economic reform plan as soon as possible, including measures to diversify the economy, increase foreign exchange earnings, and stabilize the naira. This plan should include specific targets and timelines for reducing inflation, improving foreign investment, and promoting local production. We demand transparency and regular progress updates to ensure accountability and build trust with the citizens.”
Mamedu warned that: “ActionAid Nigeria will hold the government accountable for their actions and demand a better future for all Nigerians. We will take all necessary actions to ensure that the government is held accountable to Nigerian citizens.”
ActionAid Nigeria Demands Immediate Action on Fuel Price Increases, Calls for Economic Reform
Boko Haram: Zulum Donates N30m for Purchase of House to Family of Slain Army Officer
By: Michael Mike
Borno State Governor, Prof. Babagana Zulum has donated N30 million cash to the family of the late Army Officer, Lieutenant Colonel Thomas Alari, who recently lost his life in the ongoing battle against Boko Haram insurgents in the Timbuktu Triangle.
The donation, which was made personally to the wife of the late officer by the Governor on Saturday in Maiduguri, is to enable the family buy a house
The governor while extending his condolences to the family of the late soldier and all others who lost their lives fighting to restore peace in Borno State, said: “Yesterday, we sent a high-level state government delegation to the funeral. However, I felt the need to personally extend my condolences on behalf of the government and people of the state.”
He added: “Let me also extend my condolences to the families of all those who lost their lives in the cause of the fight against terrorism in Borno and all parts of the northeast.”
“We are also presenting a token donation of N30m for his immediate family to purchase a house because I was told that Lt Col Alari doesn’t own a personal house. I want to assure you that apart from this, we will continue to offer support to you and the families of our fallen heroes who have put their lives in defence of our country.” Zulum stated.
The presentation was made in the presence of the Theatre Commander Operation Hadin Kai, Major General Waidi Shuaibu, Sector 2 Commander, and Major General Chieiebere Ejike. Also present are Senator Kaka Shehu Lawan and House of Representatives members Engr Bukar Talba and Ahmed Jaha.
Other State Government officials who attended the presentation include the Deputy Chief of Staff, Engr. Babagana Malumbe; Commissioners; Permanent Secretary, Government House, Mustapha Ali Busuguma; Special Adviser on Security to the Governor, Brigadier Gen. Abdullahi Ishaq (Rtd); and Chairman of Damboa Local Government, Ali Kauji among other senior officers.
Boko Haram: Zulum Donates N30m for Purchase of House to Family of Slain Army Officer
Buni elected chairman of the Lake Chad governor’s forum.
By: Yahaya Wakili
The Executive Governor of Yobe State, Hon. Mai Mala Buni CON, COMN, was elected as chairman of the Lake Chad Basin Governor’s Forum to run the affairs for two years.
The election of Governor Buni comes shortly after the end of the 5th Lake Chad Basin Governor’s Forum meeting held at Maiduguri, the Borno state capital.
In his acceptance speech, Governor Mai Mala Buni CON commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR for providing leadership to the country and region at a very difficult time.
The 5th Lake Chad Basin Governor’s Forum meeting was hosted by the Yobe state government and was declared open by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima GCON.
“I would like to extend my deepest gratitude to His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, for his leadership and commitment to peace, security, and development of the Lake Chad Basin region, Governor Buni said.
He appreciated his colleagues, the governors of the Lake Chad Basin region, delegates, and all other stakeholders for attending and contributing to the success of the meeting.
“Therefore, we look forward to a more robust partnership, support, and the needed resource allocation for us to individually and collectively actualize our shared ambition of building a better and prosperous region for our citizens.
“I wish to, on behalf of myself, the government, and the people of Yobe State, commend and appreciate the decision of my colleagues for endorsing me as the new chairman of the forum.
According to Buni, it is gratifying that as we celebrate the successful end of this meeting, my colleagues have found me worthy of chairing the forum for the next two years.
Buni elected chairman of the Lake Chad governor’s forum.
Mustapha Rufau Appointed as Kangiwa of Adamawa Emirate
By: Michael Mike
In a significant development for the Adamawa Emirate, Mustapha Rufau, a distinguished businessman from a prestigious family, has been appointed as the Kangiwa of the Adamawa Emirate.
The appointment underscores his exemplary contributions to business, leadership, and community development.
Mustapha Rufau is renowned for his sharp business acumen and success in diverse ventures, which have cemented his reputation as an astute entrepreneur.
His visionary leadership and commitment to societal growth have earned him admiration both in the corporate world and among community stakeholders.
The title of Kangiwa is one of great honor and responsibility, symbolizing leadership, trust, and service to the emirate. With his deep-rooted values and dedication to progress, Mustapha Rufau is expected to play a pivotal role in preserving the emirate’s cultural heritage while driving unity and development across the region.
This appointment also reflects the enduring influence of the Rufau family, known for their legacy of service and excellence.
As Kangiwa, Mustapha Rufau’s leadership is anticipated to leave a lasting impact on the Adamawa Emirate and beyond.
Mustapha Rufau Appointed as Kangiwa of Adamawa Emirate
Boko Haram: Zulum Donates N30m for Purchase of House to Family of Slain Army Officer
Buni elected chairman of the Lake Chad governor’s forum.
Mustapha Rufau Appointed as Kangiwa of Adamawa Emirate
Roger Federer’s Shock as DNA Results Reveal Myla and Charlene Are Not His Biological Children
THE PLIGHT OF FARIDA
EYN: Rev. Billi, Distortion of History, and The Living Tamarind Tree
-
News11 months agoRoger Federer’s Shock as DNA Results Reveal Myla and Charlene Are Not His Biological Children
-
Opinions3 years ago
THE PLIGHT OF FARIDA
-
News11 months agoEYN: Rev. Billi, Distortion of History, and The Living Tamarind Tree
-
ACADEMICS11 months agoA History of Biu” (2015) and The Lingering Bura-Pabir Question (1)
-
Columns11 months agoArmy University Biu: There is certain interest, but certainly not from Borno.
-
Opinions3 years agoPOLICE CHARGE ROOMS, A MINTING PRESS
-
Opinions12 months agoTinubu,Shettima: The epidemic of economic, insecurity in Nigeria
-
National News11 months agoFraud and Mismanagement Rock INGO’s IDP Cash Assistance Effort in Bama
