Dr. Olukemi Afolayan, the Oyo State Directorate of the National Orientation Agency (NOA), has cautioned against the planned hardship protest in Nigeria.
She mentioned that the current administration is responsive and ready to offer solutions to all the challenges facing the country.
Dr. Afolayan made this statement during a BCOS current affairs program titled ‘Matters Arising,’ where the topic was “Economic Hardship: Will Protest Proffer Solutions?”
She further emphasized that the government is fully aware of the hardship being experienced by the people and is taking decisive actions to address these issues.
Dr. Afolayan highlighted that one of the core mandates of NOA is to provide feedback, ensuring that the government and other necessary stakeholders are updated on the reactions of the masses.
Dr. Afolayan cited the proactive response of the Federal Government to the ongoing minimum wage issue, which had existed before the present administration came into power. This, she noted, indicates a government that listens to the people, understands their concerns, and fulfills its responsibilities. Furthermore, she mentioned that the Federal government is implementing measures to alleviate hunger, which will soon be felt by all.
Dr. Afolayan advised the youths to be patient and allow the government to fulfill its promises. Additionally, Mr. Olamiji Esq, a co-discussant on the program, emphasized the importance of non-violent and constitutional protests, while discouraging the infringement of others’ rights or property destruction, which he referred to as “our heritage.”
Mr. Martins Olamiji Esq also advocated for subsistence farming as a means to combat hunger and suggested that farming should become a way of life. He called on the Federal Government to support successful farming initiatives in order to reduce hunger in the country.
Signed,
Isiaka Adeniyi
Head, NOA Media Unit
