…Targets Citizens at Grassroots for Improved Program’s Efficiency
By Sa’eed Ahmad Bappah, Damaturu
The Federal Government of Nigeria, under the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Muhammad Idris Malagi has launched a nationwide campaign to raise awareness about President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s “Renewed Hope” Initiative.
This initiative aims to bridge the information gap and ensure citizens, particularly those at the grassroots level, are aware of government interventions designed to support the economy, especially following the recent fuel subsidy removal and its attendant consequences.
The two-day program kicked off simultaneously in all 36 states of the federation to raise awareness on the government’s deliberate intervention to support states and local government areas in reducing the harsh effects of the current economic hardships in the country.
To ensure widespread awareness, the campaign targets key areas such as State Houses of Assembly, Emir’s Palaces, schools, markets, and other public places.
In Yobe State, the program commenced at the Federal Secretariat Conference Hall in Damaturu, the state capital. Dr. Habu Bah Yaye Adamu of Yobe State University delivered a presentation outlining the eight key points of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s “Renewed Hope” agenda. These include:
NELFUND: This program allocates N2.9 billion to support innovative businesses.
NIYA.NG: This program empowers young Nigerians aged 18-35 across all regions with skills development programs.
Credicorp.ng: This initiative aims to remove structural market and policy barriers hindering economic growth.
PI-CNG Initiative which seeks to provide succor to the masses against hardships accasioned by fuel subsidy removal.
Bank of Industry (BOI): Tailored support for micro-businesses will be available through boi.ng/microbusiness.
NDDC Youths Empowerment: This program seeks to empower 10,000 youths in the Niger Delta through NYSC.nddc.gov.ng.
BOI Digital & Creative Enterprises: Support will be provided through boi.ng/idice.
Global Talent Export Hub: A partnership initiative facilitated by natep.gov.ng.
Following the presentation, the team led by the Head of Center, Federal Information Center (FIC), Damaturu, Mr. Hussaini Umar Makwai, along with Mrs. Oke Omolade and Saeed Ahmad Bappah from FIC Gombe, visited key locations in Damaturu, including the Yobe State House of Assembly, the Emir’s Palace, and the Federal Polytechnic Damaturu.
At the Federal Polytechnic, Dean of Student Affairs, Dr. Hafsat Abubakar, encouraged students to take advantage of these programs. She emphasized the importance of seeking clarification for a full understanding of the initiatives.
At the palace, the Emir of Damaturu commended the government’s efforts and urged his people, especially the youth, to participate in these programs for a brighter future. He pledged to promote the initiative throughout his emirate.
The team concluded the campaign at the bustling Damaturu Central Market, where a large crowd gathered. They addressed questions and provided clarifications about the “Renewed Hope” policies.
This nationwide awareness campaign demonstrates the Federal Government’s commitment to bridging the information gap and ensuring citizens benefit optimally from the government’s intervention programs.