Nigeria’s Progressives Governors’ Forum Urges Restraint Amid Ongoing Reforms

Nigeria’s Progressives Governors’ Forum (PGF) has appealed to Nigerians to exercise restraint, acknowledging that President Bola Tinubu’s reforms and economic policies are experiencing a “teething challenge.” The forum, comprising governors elected on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC), expressed confidence that the nation would pull through the current economic hardships.

Chairman of the PGF and Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodimma, made the appeal during a closed-door meeting with journalists on Wednesday night. He urged Nigerian youths to cancel their planned demonstration and allow the president to implement the necessary reforms to restore the country’s prosperity.

“We have looked at the various policies of this government, and we acknowledge a teething problem associated with the initial stage of the programme,” Uzodimma said. “We are very hopeful, and we believe that this is also the solution to the current problem and economic hardship that has befallen our country.”

The PGF chairman emphasized that Nigerians had suffered enough, citing the global economic recession, insecurity, political tension, and social media attacks on government policies. He urged citizens to take ownership of the country and show patriotism by supporting the government’s efforts to stabilize the economy.

“We want to advise for the interest of the country and a show of patriotism. Our citizens must take ownership of this country. We have no other country we can call our own,” Uzodimma said. “We took the opportunity also to agree to explain to the larger Nigerians that this government is doing well.”

The PGF’s appeal for restraint comes as Nigeria faces growing economic challenges, including a shortage of foreign exchange, high inflation, and decreased oil production. The government’s policies, including the recent electricity tariff hike, have been criticized by opposition parties and some citizens, leading to widespread protests and demonstrations.

By exercising restraint and supporting the government’s reforms, Nigerians can help the country overcome its current challenges and achieve long-term economic prosperity.