By Joy Yesufu
A Coalition of Northeast Youths (CNY) has kicked against the planned national protests scheduled to commence August 1st over
economic hardships in the country.
The coalition comprising young leaders and influential persons, has opted for a national dialogue with the Federal and State governments.
At a news conference in Maiduguri, the CNY Chairman, Aliyu Mohammed said the primary objective of the organisation is to promote peace and stability in our nation instead of embarking on a 10-day protests.
He said President Bola Tinubu and his vice, Senator Kashim Shettima are addressing the various challenges facing the nation, particularly the rising costs of living in the six geo-political zones.
He also said that besides overcoming the economic challenges by the federal government, the 36 governors, including Babagana Zulum, are committed in restoring peace, with the distribution of palliative for over five years.
He noted that instead of embarking on a national protest, the youths should emphasize the significance of constructive engagement with the Federal and State governments.
“We should advocate for dialogue and collaborate with constituted authorities, instead of protests in pursuit of our collective rights.
“Our proposed initiatives involve collaborating with governmental and private sectors to implement youth training programs in agriculture and digital skills.
“This will promote self-reliance and economic stability among the youths that comprise over 60 percent of the nation’s population” Mohammed noted.
He said the youths also intend to leverage their influential social media platforms in reaching over 2 million followers to advocate for peace and unity while urging the Federal Government to prioritize the development of critical infrastructures including the Mambila hydroelectric dam project and Port Harcourt-Maiduguri rail way line.
They also urged the federal government to increase resources in addressing the security challenges in the Northeast and other parts of the country.
