The National Economic Council meeting chaired by Vice President Architect Namadi Sambo, approved the removal of fuel subsidy in Abuja, Nigeria on Monday.
Governor of Anambra State, Mr. Peter Obi, spoke on behalf of the National Executive Council after the meeting, he stated, “”After extensive deliberation, we have arrived at the collective decision that the January take off of the removal of subsidy cannot be changed. It is a case of inevitability considering the level of present debt portfolio of the federal government, and the continuous financing of it. Like the President said either way there will be grave consequences and one is lesser if we take it. There is no place such decision has been taken that people do not feel a temporary pain. Everybody will work together to see that this is achievable, but there is a safety net, which has been outlined. What is happening is a case of Nigerians not trusting the government and it is a case of making a mistake because you can’t use the process of yesterday. Those who think of yesterday and today will miss tomorrow. Because people think there was so much waste yesterday how are we sure that if this one happens it will be utilized properly? But there is a firm promise it is documented and it is for all of us to hold on to it. If we do it, yes there might be temporary problems but the gains far outweigh the consequences if we don’t do it”
“The National Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) has been directed to issue operational licenses to states that intend to either generate or distribute power provided they meet the required conditions. FG’s policy is to encourage states to participate in the power reforms in order to enhance power supply in the country”” What are you thinking?