AS the plan to protest nationwide against hunger, USIR Project Converner, Umma-Salma Isyaka Rabiu has appealed to youths to shun the protest and engage in dialogue with critical stakeholders.
Speaking at press briefing in Kano over the weekend, Rabiu noted that engaging in any form of protest at this time will be an ill wind that will do no good to anyone especially people of the north.
Acknowledging that hunger was biting hard on Nigerians, Rabiu said: “Our beloved Nigeria is navigating a complex landscape of challenges that test our resilience and unity. Many of you are understandably frustrated, and your passion for change is both powerful and commendable.
“President John F. Kennedy once said before the United Nations, “Protest and Terror are not a new weapon. They have been used throughout history to spread fear and chaos. But terror is not a solution; it is a problem.
“I urge you, the vibrant and determined youth of Nigeria, to channel your energy into peaceful and effective means of advocacy. Engage in dialogue, propose solutions, and work collaboratively with community leaders. Show that we can drive change not through destruction but through unity and positive action.”
See full speech below:
USIR PROJEECT
SPEECH FOR ADDRESSING YOUTH SUPPORT GROUPS IN KANO, ON SUNDAY 27TH JULY 2024 AT KANO STATE LIBRARY AHMADU BELLO WAY NASSARAWA GRA (AMERICAN SPACE)
Good day, young leaders of Kano,
Today, I address you with a sense of urgency and a hopeful vision during a pivotal moment in our nation’s journey. Our beloved Nigeria is navigating a complex landscape of challenges that test our resilience and unity. Many of you are understandably frustrated, and your passion for change is both powerful and commendable.
President John F. Kennedy once said before the United Nations, “Protest and Terror are not a new weapon. They have been used throughout history to spread fear and chaos. But terror is not a solution; it is a problem.”
These words resonate deeply with our current situation. Resorting to violence and chaos is not the answer to our issues.
Instead, it only exacerbates the suffering and can lead to greater harm.
Consider what has recently transpired in Kenya.
The country experienced significant unrest over a controversial finance bill. Although the government eventually withdrew the bill and made some changes, including the sacking of ministers and cost-cutting measures, Kenya has not seen the relief it hoped for. Shops, schools, and businesses were burned, and the streets became battlegrounds.
The initial grievances were overshadowed by violence and destruction, and the dream of positive change was hijacked by those who sought to exploit the unrest for their own gain.
This is a reality we must face here in Nigeria. The fear of such outcomes is real and should not be underestimated. Violence and protests can spiral out of control, leading to the very chaos we seek to avoid. It is crucial for us to learn from these examples and understand that while our voices are powerful, they must be used wisely and constructively.
I urge you, the vibrant and determined youth of Nigeria, to channel your energy into peaceful and effective means of advocacy. Engage in dialogue, propose solutions, and work collaboratively with community leaders. Show that we can drive change not through destruction but through unity and positive action.
Your voices matter, and your dedication to a better Nigeria is needed more than ever.
Critical interventions of the President Tinubu-led Administration in Education
Removing universities from the Integrated Payroll and Personnel Information System (IPPIS) and addressing recruitment challenges to provide greater autonomy to university administrators.
Removal of financial barrier to accessing higher education by dint of the Student Loan Scheme.
Expanded scholarship programme — with about 250,000 scholarships to ensure that financial constraints do not hinder students’ academic journey.
In response to escalating security concerns, safety centres have been established in Abuja and across various states, with all educational institutions required to register.
These centres, bolstered by trained security agents, aim to promptly address threats and ensure a safer learning environment for students.
The Out-of-School Children Commission, set to commence in September, will provide training to approximately 10,000 young individuals.
With the introduction of the DOT policy, which focuses on comprehensive data collection to better support schools, teachers, and infrastructure, four (4) million young Nigerians have been reintegrated into the educational system through various agencies of the Ministry of Education.
Let us work together to build a future where every Nigerian can flourish, not through the turmoil of protest, but through the power of peaceful, collective effort.
Thank you for your commitment to our nation’s progress. Let us stand united in the pursuit of peace and prosperity.
May God bless you and may God bless Nigeria.
Thank you.
Convener: Umma Salma Isyaka Rabiu
