"Halt to protests for dialogue opportunity", President Tinubu Tells Hungry Nigerians

In Summary
• President Bola Tinubu urges halt to protests for dialogue opportunity
• Amnesty International reports at least 13 deaths in clashes with security forces
• Protests driven by cost of living crisis and economic reforms
• Tinubu defends economic policies, highlights government initiatives

ABUJA, NIGERIA- Nigerian President Bola Tinubu made his first public address on Sunday regarding the recent wave of protests that have swept across the country, calling for a suspension of demonstrations to create an opportunity for dialogue. The president's appeal comes in the wake of violent clashes between protesters and security forces, resulting in multiple casualties and escalating tensions.

Amnesty International has reported that at least 13 people were killed on the first day of protests last Thursday. However, Nigerian police have disputed this figure, stating that seven deaths had occurred as of Saturday. According to police accounts, four deaths resulted from an explosive device during a march in northeast Borno state, two were hit by a car, and one was shot by a guard during the looting of a shop.

In his televised broadcast, President Tinubu acknowledged the frustrations driving the protests and assured citizens that his government is committed to addressing their concerns. "My dear Nigerians, especially our youth, I have heard you loud and clear. I understand the pain and frustration that drive these protests, and I want to assure you that our government is committed to listening and addressing the concerns of our citizens," he stated.

The protests, which have been largely organized through online platforms, stem from widespread discontent over economic hardship and perceived poor governance. Demonstrators have called for reductions in petrol prices and electricity tariffs, among other demands.

Tinubu, who took office in May 2023, defended his controversial economic reforms, which include a partial end to petrol and electricity subsidies and the devaluation of the naira. He argued that these measures were necessary to reverse years of economic mismanagement and highlighted some positive outcomes of his policies.

The president reported that government revenues had more than doubled to 9.1 trillion naira ($5.65 billion) in the first half of this year. Additionally, he noted that the percentage of revenue going to debt servicing had decreased from 97% before he took office to 68% currently.

Tinubu also outlined several government initiatives aimed at addressing citizens' concerns. These include increased spending on infrastructure projects, the launch of a loan scheme for university students, and the construction of thousands of housing units across Nigeria's 36 states.

Despite defending his policies, the president emphasized the need for peace and unity. "But we must not let violence and destruction tear our nation apart," Tinubu urged, calling for an end to the violent incidents that have occurred in several states since the protests began.

The protests and subsequent government response highlight the delicate balance Nigeria faces as it attempts to implement economic reforms while managing public discontent. As the country grapples with these challenges, the coming days will be crucial in determining whether dialogue can bridge the gap between the government's economic vision and the immediate needs of its citizens.

The international community continues to watch closely as Nigeria, Africa's most populous nation and largest economy, navigates these turbulent times. The ability of President Tinubu's administration to address the protesters' concerns while maintaining its reform agenda will likely have significant implications for the country's stability and economic future.