The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, has assured Nigerians that the current economic challenges are temporary, promising that relief measures from President Bola Tinubu’s administration will soon take effect. Speaking during a Friday prayer service at Egbeda Central Mosque in Iragbiji, Osun State, Oyetola urged citizens to remain patient as the government implements policies aimed at stabilizing the economy.
Addressing worshippers after the obligatory two-rakat prayer, the Minister acknowledged the economic strain many Nigerians are experiencing but attributed it to necessary adjustments following the policies of previous administrations. He highlighted the introduction of the Bulk Food Purchase policy as a response to inflation, emphasizing that the government is actively working to bring down the cost of living.
Oyetola underscored the administration’s focus on agriculture, particularly in supporting farmers to ensure food security. He revealed that hundreds of bags of fertilizer had been distributed to dry-season farmers in the region, a move he described as part of broader efforts to increase agricultural output and stabilize food prices. He urged farmers and youths to embrace these opportunities, prioritizing farming as a pathway to economic recovery and self-sufficiency.
The Minister also called on Nigerian youths to steer clear of vices such as drug addiction and gangsterism, encouraging them to seize the opportunities presented by the government’s Student Loan policy. The Access to Higher Education Act, 2023, which provides interest-free loans for students, was highlighted as a transformative initiative to ensure access to education and empower the next generation.
Oyetola’s remarks come at a time when Nigerians are grappling with rising costs of living and widespread economic uncertainty. His message sought to inspire hope and reaffirm the government’s commitment to implementing policies that would ease the burdens on households and foster long-term growth.
As the Tinubu administration continues to roll out its economic reforms, the promise of relief remains a beacon of hope for many Nigerians eager for change. Whether through agricultural support, educational opportunities, or targeted interventions, the government aims to deliver on its pledge to improve the standard of living for all.
