- Hon. Leke Abejide praised the Supreme Court’s decision to grant financial autonomy to local governments.
- Abejide emphasized new policies, including the Student Loans Act and the 2023 Electricity Bill.
- Abejide urged Nigerians to support President Tinubu’s administration and engage in constructive dialogue rather than protesting.
Hon. Leke Abejide, Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Customs and Excise, declared that Nigeria is progressing toward sustainable development and economic growth. During a media briefing in Abuja, Abejide urged Nigerians to demand accountability from their State and Local Governments for federal funds.
He praised the recent Supreme Court decision that granted financial autonomy to Local Governments, calling it a significant achievement of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration. This ruling enables local councils to receive resources directly to boost grassroots development and improve governance.
Abejide advised investigative journalists to focus on State and Local Government finances. “Focusing solely on the Federal Government isn’t enough,” he said.
The Chairman acknowledged Nigerians’ economic difficulties but remained optimistic about the administration’s efforts. He predicted that food prices would fall within three months, reflecting his confidence in the government’s ability to stabilise the economy.
Abejide highlighted several government initiatives, including the Student Loans Act, which aims to make higher education more accessible, and the Lagos-Calabar Super Highway project. He also praised the 2023 Electricity Bill, which seeks to decentralise power generation and distribution.
Addressing recent calls for protests by Chief Ralph Nwosu, the National Chairman of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Abejide opposed such actions. While he understood the frustrations leading to these calls, he urged against protests at this critical time. He emphasised that supporting the administration’s efforts is crucial for addressing Nigeria’s long-standing problems.
The Chairman stressed the need for constructive dialogue and vigilance against corruption. He encouraged Nigerians, especially the youth, to engage with and monitor the government’s initiatives. He highlighted the importance of patience and unity in achieving progress.
“Nigeria’s challenges are real, but so are the administration’s efforts to tackle them,” Abejide said. We must support these efforts and work together for the country’s betterment.”
Abejide concluded by urging Nigerians to remain patient and persistent. He emphasised that the achievements of the past 14 months mark just the beginning. Nigeria can overcome its challenges and move toward a more prosperous future with collective effort.
Abejide’s statements reflect a broader call for unity and support for ongoing government initiatives to address the country’s current economic and developmental challenges.