The Minister of Niger Delta Development, Abubakar Momoh, has expressed confidence that the various interventions implemented in the region by President Bola Tinubu will discourage the youth from participating in the planned protest against bad governance.
He made this assertion in a chat with State House correspondents in Abuja on Wednesday.
While noting that protests are legitimate rights of citizens, he said the consequences of such actions may not be good for economic development.
Momoh stated that the intervention of President Tinubu in providing infrastructure has been unprecedented.
He said, “We are very lucky to have President Ahmed Tinubu, who is deeply committed to the overall development of the country, irrespective of the area.
“We know that a number of projects are ongoing in this country, projects that were never attempted by previous administrations despite the limited resources available to the government now. I am surprised, and I wonder if you see what is happening in this administration.
“And what we have observed is that it appears the majority of Nigerians, particularly the youth, are not very conversant with the numerous programs put in place to alleviate their suffering.
“From my perspective in the Niger Delta region, I think the President has done a lot, and I don’t believe anyone from the Niger Delta area would deem it necessary to protest against bad governance.
“The number of projects that have been executed in the South-South region, particularly the Niger Delta, within this one year cannot be compared with what has happened in the last four years. For instance, recently, you watched us on the screen commissioning projects in the Niger Delta area.”
The minister mentioned that there are quite a number of welfare programs ongoing in the region and that the Ministry embarked on an empowerment and welfare program for the first time in its history.
He further stated, “Today, a number of women and youth have benefited reasonably. Mr. President has also graciously approved the release of funds to address the flooded areas of the Niger Delta and provided palliatives for the people.
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“In addition to what he has done for the state government, you are aware that a number of relief materials have been sent through various state governors to the people of Nigeria.”
Continuing, Momoh said, “Regarding the issue of protest, I don’t think anyone, including the President, would consider protesting a sin. But what we are saying is that in the name of protest, do not cause mayhem or destroy the properties of innocent citizens. Do not cause mayhem because the freedom to protest has a limit—you do not have the freedom to protest and cause destruction.
“So, youths, the country is yours, the future is yours. If you destroy what you will rely on in the future, it becomes a serious problem.
“I appeal to the youth of this country to take advantage of the numerous youth programs initiated by this government. Take advantage of them.”
