Nigeria@63: Tinubu pledges to tackle environmental challenges, food scarcity

By Fatima Saka, Farida Salifu

President Tinubu In his address to the nation on the occasion of the 63rd independence anniversary, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu outlined his vision for a prosperous and sustainable Nigeria.

He highlighted the need to address the environmental and food security challenges facing the country, as well as to modernize the economy and secure the lives and property of the people.

President Tinubu said that his administration was committed to implementing bold reforms that would place Nigeria on the path of growth and development.

He announced the end of the fuel subsidy, which he said was a drain on the national resources and a source of corruption and inefficiency.

He explained that the removal of the subsidy would free up funds for investment in infrastructure, education, health, and agriculture.

The President outlined plans to introduce new CNG conversion kits and set up training facilities and workshops across the nation. This groundbreaking moment signifies a shift towards more efficient means of powering the economy.

“New CNG conversion kits will start coming in very soon as all hands are on deck to fast track the usually lengthy procurement process. We are also setting up training facilities and workshops across the nation to train and provide new opportunities for transport operators and entrepreneurs.

“This is a groundbreaking moment where, as a nation, we embrace more efficient means to power our economy. In making this change, we also make history.” Tinubu said.

He also said that his government was working to diversify the economy away from dependence on oil, which he described as a volatile and finite resource.

He said that Nigeria had enormous potential in renewable energy, especially solar and wind power, which could provide clean and affordable electricity to millions of Nigerians.

He said that his government would support the development of these sectors through incentives, policies, and partnerships.

President Tinubu also emphasized the importance of food security for the nation, especially in the face of climate change and population growth.

He said that his government was determined to boost agricultural production and productivity, as well as to improve access to markets and credit for farmers.

He said that his government would also promote agro-processing and value addition, as well as to enhance food safety and quality standards.

He said that his government was aware of the environmental challenges facing the country, such as deforestation, desertification, erosion, flooding, pollution, and biodiversity loss.

He said that his government would take urgent steps to protect and restore the environment, as well as to mitigate and adapt to the effects of climate change.

He said that his government would also implement policies and programs that would foster environmental awareness and education among Nigerians.

President Tinubu concluded his speech by calling on all Nigerians to join hands with him in building a new Nigeria that would be a source of pride and inspiration for generations to come.

He said that Nigeria had overcome many obstacles in its history, and that it had the capacity and resilience to overcome its current challenges.

He said that Nigeria was a great nation with a great destiny, and that he was confident that together, Nigerians would achieve their collective aspirations.