Northern Groups Withdraw From Planned Protest, Urge Support For Tinubu’s Reforms

The Northern Ethnic Youth Group Assembly (NEYGA) has withdrawn from the planned August 1 nationwide protest over the state of the nation and instead called on Nigerian youths and student bodies to give President Bola Tinubu more time to implement his economic reforms.

The group, comprising minority tribes in Northern Nigeria, acknowledged that the current challenges facing the country were a legacy of former President Muhammadu Buhari administration, which they didn’t protest against at the time, saying they now realised that protesting now may jeopardise national unity.

The group also commended Minister of Steel Development, Prince Shuaibu Audu, for his plans to restart the Ajaokuta Steel Complex’s light section mill. This is expected to produce 400,000 metric tons of iron rods annually, addressing road construction and building collapse issues.

It stated that Nigeria has faced difficult times, periods of unrest, and moments that tested its resilience. They believed the nation has endured and survived, and it’s time to look toward a promising future.

In a statement signed by the spokesperson of NEYGA, Ibrahim Dan-Musa, on Sunday, the group urged Nigerians to give President Tinubu a chance, adding that they saw hope and a sense of possibility that shouldn’t be ignored.

“We appeal to other Arewa groups to acknowledge that Nigeria’s challenges are a shared responsibility,” Dan-Musa said.

“President Tinubu needs more time to implement his plans for the country. The ongoing reforms offer hope for a better future.”

He added that President Tinubu-led presidency presents a fresh opportunity for transformation. While skepticism is understandable, the group believed reforms under Tinubu were taking shape, paving the way for a better future.

It noted that the changes were seen as substantial, forming the foundation for a more secure, prosperous, and just nation.

“We are witnessing the dawn of a new era, where mistakes are acknowledged and rectified, and the people’s voices are heard. Now is the time to unite, support the reforms, and hold our leaders accountable.

“Let’s engage in constructive dialogue, participate actively, and ensure our leaders know we are vigilant and invested in our collective future. We must become active participants in shaping our destiny.

“Hope is a powerful force. Let’s embrace it with a commitment to making our nation better for all.

“We owe it to ourselves, our children, and the memory of those we lost. Let’s give President Tinubu the time and support needed to implement these vital reforms.

“Let’s watch with open minds and hearts, ready to contribute and collaborate. Together, we can forge a new path for our nation to rise and soar,” he stated.