Nigerian govt defends Tinubu’s economic reforms, insists petrol discount not subsidy

The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has defended the Federal Government's economic reforms and measures to ease the impact of increasing petrol prices. Speaking during an interactive media engagement in Abuja, Idris assured Nigerians of President Bola Tinubu's administration's commitment to enhancing living standards and economic recovery.

Idris addressed concerns over fuel prices, labour relations, poverty, local government autonomy, food security, infrastructure, national security, and press freedom. He explained that the 30-day petrol discount by the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited was a temporary measure to provide relief amid rising global energy costs, not a return to fuel subsidies.

Idris acknowledged the economic hardships faced by households and stated that the government's reforms should lead to tangible improvements in Nigerians' lives. He cited positive economic indicators, such as declining inflation, strengthened external reserves, and increased non-oil export earnings, as evidence of progress. The minister emphasized the importance of ensuring these benefits reach the general population.

On labour relations, Idris expressed confidence in resolving outstanding issues through dialogue with organized labor. He also mentioned President Tinubu's proposal to review minimum wage arrangements every three years instead of every five. Regarding local government financial autonomy, Idris reaffirmed the government's commitment to its implementation and ongoing consultations with stakeholders to address practical challenges.

The minister highlighted the government's support for domestic agricultural production and efforts to strengthen food reserves, urging traders to avoid hoarding and practices that create scarcity. He stressed that while the government provides enabling conditions, Nigerians must also contribute to ensuring food affordability. On road projects, Idris defended ongoing Federal Government initiatives, explaining that they aimed to improve connectivity, facilitate trade, support agriculture, and create economic corridors, rather than political gains.

He emphasized that road construction is ongoing to benefit Nigerians and stimulate economic activities. Regarding national security, the minister reported an expansion of military operational structures to 12 divisions and improved support for security personnel, acknowledging ongoing challenges but reaffirming the government's dedication to enhancing the country's security infrastructure.

Responding to concerns about press freedom and reports of media arrests, Idris denied any directive from President Tinubu to suppress the media, pledging to seek clarification on specific incidents. He urged media organizations to uphold professional standards, verify information, and avoid sensationalism, emphasizing that press freedom must be accompanied by responsibility.

Idris commended the participating media organizations for their engagement and expressed a commitment to maintaining regular interactive sessions to strengthen communication between the government and the media.