Why People Planning Protests Are Unpatriotic Nigerians — Umahi
The Federal Government has urged Nigerian workers and citizens to boost productivity, emphasizing that such efforts would enhance living standards nationwide.
The Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, made this statement during a press briefing on Sunday in Uburu, Ohaozara Local Government Area, Ebonyi. Umahi highlighted that hunger could be alleviated if the populace engaged more in agriculture and extended their working hours.
He stated, “Our standard of living cannot improve unless we enhance our productivity and increase our working hours. We must confront these fundamental truths.”
Regarding the proposed nationwide protest, Umahi condemned the idea, asserting that it would not benefit the country. “President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration has made significant strides for the people. Those planning to protest against this administration lack patriotism,” he said.
Umahi emphasized the need to elevate productivity levels and working hours to improve living standards. “What exactly are people protesting about? Without President Tinubu, we might have faced national collapse. It’s easy to criticize when you’re not in charge. Instead of just highlighting hunger, we need actionable solutions. We must engage in agriculture and other productive activities.”
Reflecting on his private sector experience, Umahi remarked, “I always advocated for extended working hours. Everyone should be employed. We shouldn’t be buying basic items like pepper and tomatoes; we should be growing them in our own spaces.”
He stressed that improving living standards is a collective responsibility. “Regardless of the federal government’s investments and palliative measures, we must increase our productivity and working hours. Without utilizing available resources effectively, progress is unattainable.”
Umahi expressed his support for President Tinubu’s initiatives, including the introduction of CNG buses, various palliatives, financial aid to traders and vulnerable families, and agricultural support like rice and fertilizers. “These measures are crucial, but we must commit to them. We must change the narrative. The government alone cannot solve all issues; we must support the President’s efforts. Protests are merely mischievous,” Umahi concluded.
