By Milcah Tanimu
Nigerian youths, represented by the Nigerian Youths Alliance (NYA), have expressed their appreciation for Mallam Mele Kyari, the group chief executive officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd), for his commitment to transparency, accountability, and good governance in the nation’s oil and gas sector, particularly in handling the recent fuel subsidy removal initiative.
In a statement released in Abuja on Wednesday, the NYA, through its national president Ifeanyi Ogbu and secretary Yemisi Oluwadamiro, specifically praised Kyari for the transparency demonstrated by NNPC Ltd. in paying an interim dividend of N123 billion to the Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC) for the month of June, just two months after the federal government ended subsidy payments.
The youths acknowledged that while the removal of petrol subsidy may cause temporary hardships, they called on fellow Nigerians to exercise patience and understanding. They encouraged Kyari to remain steadfast and focused, not allowing himself to be swayed by distractions sponsored by opposition groups, anti-democratic elements, and corrupt individuals who had taken advantage of the subsidy payment scheme to exploit the country.
The statement emphasized that as Nigerian youths, they recognize and applaud the efforts of patriots who are working tirelessly to ensure the betterment of the nation. They acknowledged that the removal of fuel subsidy is a necessary step for the country to overcome its current challenges and thrive.
The NYA condemned the actions of certain oil marketers and corrupt individuals who had abused the subsidy system to amass illicit wealth at the expense of ordinary Nigerians. They pointed out that the subsidy program was originally designed to make fuel affordable for the masses, but unscrupulous individuals manipulated the system for personal gains. These elements engaged in criminal activities, diverting and smuggling petroleum products to neighboring countries, where they sold at higher rates, thereby pocketing more profits even after receiving subsidy funds from the Nigerian government.
In conclusion, the NYA acknowledged that though the subsidy removal might involve sacrifices, it is a necessary move for the nation’s progress. They expressed commendation for the bold and audacious initiatives of the administration led by President Bola Tinubu.