Two experts in the oil and gas sector have faulted the new regime change in price of fuel which has resulted in massive hike in cost of goods and services.
The occasion was at the the National Support Group Political Dialogue and Book Launch held via Google Meet on Sunday 23 July, 2023.
The political dialogue titled “President Tinubu’s blitzkrieg : So far, so good?”, served as an open platform for thought-provoking discussions on pressing national issues especially the removal of oil subsidy.
Esteemed speakers and policy experts from the oil and gas sector like Engr. Odafe Emma Igbini and Engr Adewale Raji, passionately shared their insights, exploring diverse perspectives and proposing innovative solutions.
The event facilitated an atmosphere of constructive debate and promoted understanding among attendees from various backgrounds and ideologies. For Engr. Igbini, he was supportive of the removal of fuel subsidy by the president but worried that the president seems to be on the wrong path after the subsidy removal, as he said,” how on earth would anyone convince him to increase the price of petrol and come up with the very annoying so- called palliatives?” He insisted that fuel can ” conveniently sell for maximum of 50 naira per litre in Nigeria if only we do the right thing”
Engr. Raji, summed up some” immediate actions to be taken to gain the confidence of the citizenry” which he highlighted as , “Energy cost needs to be kept low to reduce the cost of living and to boost industrialisation. This can be achieved by local production…with local refinery; it is expected that the pump price will be below the ones imported”.
He further suggested the saving of ” forex by promoting local manufacturing and production to reduce export , while the attendant benefits of improving the value of naira is employment generation , safe haven for investors etc” . He also canvassed that the “security atmosphere needs to be improved to guarantee investors and local production”.
In addition to the political dialogue, the book launch was a significant highlight of the evening. Authored by the Convener of the Group , Seye Akanmu-Bode, the book , Ukulele 2023 Electoral Process: Issues, outcomes and bedlam, delves deep into the intricacies of the 2023 presidential election.
At the event moderated by Ms Grace Ibor, an Emerging Political Leaders Fellow, attendees had the opportunity to engage with the author, participate in stimulating discussions, and make purchases of the book.
The Chief Launcher was Engr. Raji who opened the floor with the purchase of 20 copies of the book. He was joined by other participants who also made purchases, chief among was Mr Adedayo Francis, a US based Financial expert, who equally bought 20 copies . Other participants also made purchases.
Earlier, the book reviewer, Mrs Madeline Mkunu Founder and President of Leading Women of Africa, had praised the author of the book for the great work he had put in the writing of the book.
The National Support Group believes that fostering open dialogue and promoting diverse intellectual voices are fundamental to achieving a thriving democratic society. Through events like this, the organization aims to provide a platform for meaningful conversations that can inspire positive change and empower citizens to actively participate in shaping their political landscape.
The success of the political dialogue and book launch event would not have been possible without the support and participation of the esteemed guests, speakers, volunteers, and partners who contributed to its vibrancy. The National Support Group extends its heartfelt gratitude to all those involved.
Signed: Romanus Onyealor
Spokesperson, National Support Group.
