It’s In Your Interest Nigeria Remains Peaceful – Buhari To Youths

BY EDMOND ODOK, ABUJA – President Muhammadu Buhari on Monday declared that it is in the best interest of Nigerian youths to ensure the country remains peaceful and on the path of sustainable socio-economic and political growth

In obvious reference to the #EndSARS protest that was hijacked by hoodlums, resulting in mayhem and destruction of public and private property, the President said; “It is in the interest of the youths to keep the peace. They want jobs, infrastructure and development.”

“Our own generation is on the last lap, we are exiting,” President Buhari said.

“I have sent a team led by the Chief of Staff (Professor Ibrahim Gambari) to go round the country, talk to traditional rulers, who will then talk to the youths. The views of the youths have been heard,” the President added.

Presidential Spokesperson, Femi Adesina said the President spoke while receiving Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations and Nigeria’s former Minister of Environment, Amina Mohammed at State House, Abuja.

He said the current administration inherited severe infrastructural deficits, “and that is what we are fighting to correct. We can’t just sit, fold our hands, and do nothing. We are doing our best within the limits of resources.”

While ruing the fact that COVID-19 has shrunk the global economy, President Buhari said; “This is something you can’t see, smell, or hear,” but which has wrought devastation on lives and livelihoods round the world.

On climate change, the President said Nigeria is concerned about the recharge of the Lake Chad, which has great implications on security, irregular migration, and livelihoods.

In her remarks, the UN Deputy Secretary-General said the team is in Nigeria to flag interest on challenges that concern the UN, particularly COVID-19.

Others include climate change; security; and humanitarian responses to the diverse challenges.