In the midst of the challenges brought about by the removal of petrol subsidy by the federal government, Senator Ahmad Ibrahim Lawan, the President of the 9th Senate, has encouraged Nigerians to maintain a hopeful outlook, asserting that the difficulties they are facing are not permanent.
Lawan made this appeal on Saturday, during the distribution of 9,000 bags of grains as palliatives to his constituents from 60 wards in six local government areas of Yobe North Senatorial District.
According to a statement released by Ezrel Tabiowo, the former Senate President’s Media Adviser, the intervention scheme, organized by Senator Ahmad Ibrahim Lawan and the SAIL Empowerment Foundation, took place at Filin Katuzu in Bade Local Government Area of Yobe State. The scheme also aims to assist Muslim religious groups, Christian communities, and individuals with disabilities.
In his message to the beneficiaries, Lawan advised them, as well as all Nigerians, to continue praying and maintain a positive and hopeful attitude, in the belief that the current situation will come to an end.
“This is not a permanent situation; it is a temporary setback. Sometimes, public policies have unintended consequences that we must endure in order to achieve a better quality of life.
“So, let us be patient and pray, while continuing to support our government at all levels. This situation will not last for much longer,” the former Senate President remarked.
Speaking to journalists at the event, Lawan also expressed sympathy for Nigerians grappling with the high cost of living resulting from the removal of petrol subsidy.
He expressed optimism that the policies implemented by the President Bola Tinubu-led government would eventually yield the desired outcomes.
“We are currently facing significant challenges, with many people struggling to afford food due to recent events and circumstances. However, the federal government has implemented several measures, such as providing N5 billion to every state, as well as delivering 5 or 6 truckloads of grains to each state, including the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
“The provision of these 9,000 bags of grains from me is my token contribution to complement the efforts of the federal government and my state in supporting my community. It is my way of saying, ‘I understand your situation, and while I wish I could do more, this is what I can offer at this time.’
“We pray to Almighty Allah (SWT) for a swift end to this situation. I firmly believe that the recent policies, particularly the withdrawal of petroleum subsidy, which is part of the challenge, will yield the desired outcomes in due course.
“We will witness a better life and witness more infrastructural development in our states and communities. However, for now, this is the price we must pay,” Lawan asserted.
