A Young Progressives Party (YPP) chieftain, Dr. Ugo Young Atakulu, has urged the governments at various levels to prioritise policies that will reduce inflation and supportlocal production.
Atakulu, who spoke on the economic hardship in the country, stressed the urgent need for proactive action by the government.
The party chieftain, who is also executive chairman YUVA Group, decried what he called the ever-increasing high cost of living and the numerous difficulties that now define the daily existence of Nigerians.
“The high cost of living forces many to choose between feeding their families, paying their children’s school fees, or seeking medical care when necessary. This reality weighs heavily on numerous Nigerians.
“My message today is not just for the ordinary Nigerians, who have been on the front lines of these economic challenges, I am also speaking directly to the necessary bodies and authorities; those who have been entrusted with the responsibility to lead, to govern, and to ensure the well-being of our people. I urge the government to prioritize policies focused on reducing inflation and supporting local production.”
He lamented that there is no justification for the level of hardship Nigerians are currently facing, considering the country’s enormous resources and potential.
“Nigerians have shown immense resilience and strength, but we are not without limits. A people-centered approach, rooted in the principles of urban democracy-local governance, civic engagement, and accountability-is essential.
“Urban democracies empower citizens through participatory processes, diversity, transparency, sustainability, and technology. This framework empowers diverse communities, enhances transparency, addresses pressing challenges like affordability, social inequality and also most importantly patience amongst citizens.
“We are a nation with untold potential, but that potential can only be realized when we prioritize the needs of the people, when the policies created are people-centered and people-oriented.
“Our leaders must prioritize the well-being of Nigerians to create tangible, everyday improvements. When policies are designed with the common Nigerian in mind, the benefits will trickle down to all sectors of society. It is high time we saw policies that are people-oriented, not just focused on macroeconomic growth, but growth that the average Nigerian can feel in their day-to-day lives.”
He however urged citizens to play their part, adding that through local cooperative societies and grassroots efforts, communities can pool resources and provide mutual support to weather these economic storms.
He said, “In my own capacity, I have worked relentlessly to contribute to improving the lives of Nigerians.Through my initiatives in the business, community sectors and employment creation. However, I believe these achievements are only a stepping stone. I am dedicated to supporting Nigerian through skill development initiatives, and job creation efforts and I am unveiling a program aimed towards the youth.
“A skill development project for over 1000 youth in the year 2025. We must all work together to build a Nigeria where everyone has the opportunity to live with dignity. True transformation requires a collective effort. It is important for every Nigerian to seek out opportunities in education, innovation, and entrepreneurship. We cannot wait for the government to solve all our problems, though we must continue to demand for transparency and accountability. We must take proactive steps to improve our lives, engaging in community-driven initiatives to provide local solutions to economic challenges,” he said.