The Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, has sounded a dire warning about Nigeria's future, expressing deep concern over the country's current state. Addressing the 6th Executive Committee Meeting of the Northern Traditional Rulers Council in Kaduna, the Sultan highlighted the widespread economic hardship plaguing the nation, leading to increasing agitation, anger, and hunger among citizens.
He emphasized the urgent need for job creation and food security, stating that the nation is on the brink of crisis, with millions of unemployed youths posing a significant threat. The Sultan called for collaboration between government, traditional rulers, and religious leaders to address the pressing issues of poverty, insecurity, and lack of opportunities.
Meanwhile, the federal government announced plans to distribute 42,000 metric tonnes of grains to alleviate food shortages, with Agriculture Minister Abubakar Kyari highlighting the challenges posed by flooding and insecurity. However, critics like Kabiru Alhaji Ahmed Roni cautioned against relying solely on palliative measures, urging the government to focus on sustainable solutions to address food insecurity and economic hardship.
Additionally, religious and professional bodies such as the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) and the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) called on the government to take concrete action to support citizens and address security concerns.
Governors from various states also announced intervention measures, including financial support for traders, education grants, and food palliatives, in response to growing protests and demands for relief across the country.
As Nigeria grapples with these challenges, leaders are under increasing pressure to implement effective strategies to mitigate the hardships facing the population.