By Marcus Ikechukwu
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Thursday, inuagurated the National Economic Council (NEC) Chaired by the Vice President, Kashim Shettima but noted that there was no time for rhetorics as Nigerians were yearning to see pragmatic reforms that would help them escape poverty.
According to Tinubu, the task on ground is about turning around Nigeria’s economy from the age-long status of “potential to pragmatic’’.
He said he has kick started the process with the removal of fuel subsidy and unification of exchange rates, but solicited the cooperation of the 36 state governors to join the fray of national development.
While inaugurating the National Economic Council (NEC), an advisory body comprising the 36 state Governors, CBN Governor, and other stakeholders, at the State House, President Tinubu listed eight priority areas for urgent attention.
He called for collective frameworks that will stimulate a buoyant economy that meets the needs of the poor and vulnerable.
The President assured the governors that the administration would address the issues that devalue the lives of Nigerians, with a focus on security, economy, jobs, agriculture, infrastructure, monetary policy, and fuel subsidy.
“It is worthy of note that the monthly meeting of NEC chaired by Vice President Kashim Shettima has remained officially the economic platform for robust dialogue among the federal government, the 36 state governors, the CBN, and other key stakeholders.
“In my inaugural speech of May 29th, 2023, I expressed this administration’s commitment to improving the lives of Nigerians in a manner that not just reflects our humanity, but encourages compassion towards one another and duly rewards our collective efforts to resolve the social ills that seek to divide us.
“I also listed the principles that will guide our administration and it is as follows: to be partial and govern according to the constitution and ensure the rule of law; to defend the nation from terror and all forms of criminality; to promote economic growth and development through job creation, food security and putting an end to poverty; to prominently feature women and youths in all our activities; to take proactive steps such as championing a credit culture and; to discourage corruption while strengthening the effectiveness and efficiency of various anti-corruption agencies,’’ the President said.
