The Alumni Association of the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies, AANI, is calling for dialogue and calm ahead of the August 1 planned nationwide protest. They believe that peaceful and constructive engagement between the government and the organisers, is essential to address the issues raised and ensure safety and security of all Nigerians.
In a statement by the National President, EMMANUEL OBI OKAFOR, the Association urged the government at all levels to initiate an open and transparent dialogue with the protest organisers to understand their demands and work towards practical solutions. The engagement should be inclusive, involving all stakeholders to ensure that the voices of the youths and other concerned citizens are heard and addressed.
The Association commends President Bola Tinubu for his proactive approach to initiating dialogue with the youths, urging them to cancel their planned protest and patiently await the government’s response as according to the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, the President is attentive to the voices of young Nigerians and is diligently working to address their grievances.
The Association however urges the government to take additional proactive measures to ensure that the protest remains peaceful and that security forces are deployed to protect the rights of the protesters while preventing any attempts by hoodlums to hijack the movement for nefarious purposes.
The Alumni insists that while immediate actions are necessary, long-term strategies and policies must be implemented to address the root causes of the challenges and to foster a more equitable and prosperous Nigeria.
It appeals to all Nigerians, especially the youths, to remain calm and peaceful in their conduct.
(Editor: Terverr Tyav)
