Nigerian leaders have been charged to accord priorities to the needs and wellbeing of millions of Nigerians rather than playing politics with unfulfilled promises. The ActionAid Nigeria made the call on Wednesday through a statement made available to journalists in Abuja on the nation’s 64th Independence anniversary. Country Director of ActionAid Nigeria, Andrew Mamedu, in the statement noted that contrary to the promises of progress, prosperity, and resilience made by the government, experiences of Nigerians tell a different story.
“The rising economic hardship, high costs of living, and ongoing electoral injustices have left citizens disillusioned, questioning the very foundations of their democracy and independence. “Today, Nigeria stands at a crossroads. Despite the government’s claims of recovery and growth, citizens are buckling under the weight of inflation, fuel price hikes, and austerity measures that disproportionately affect women, girls, and vulnerable communities.
“The data tells a grim story. In 1960, only 15% of the population lived in poverty; today, 63% of Nigerians are trapped in economic hardship. “These figures reflect a deepening crisis that contradicts the government’s optimistic outlook.
“Nigeria’s current trajectory reveals an alarming trend: austerity measures and economic policies that benefit the few while neglecting the many. “The removal of the fuel subsidy, for example, has compounded the daily struggles of millions,” Mamedu.
