The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has asked the federal government to alleviate the hardship on Nigerians occasioned by the hike in the price of petrol.
Daniel Okoh, CAN president, in a statement on Friday, said the government must take immediate steps to mitigate the suffering in the country.
Okoh said while it is understandable that difficult decisions need to be made to manage the nation’s economy, they must not increase poverty.
“While we acknowledge the complex and difficult decisions taken by the government to manage the nation’s economy, there is the urgent need to prioritise measures that will alleviate rather than exacerbate the existing poverty level and hardships of Nigerians,” NAN quoted Okoh as saying.
“This has placed an enormous burden on the already struggling masses, making it extremely difficult for them to afford the basic necessities of life.”
He recommended that the government should engage in meaningful dialogue with stakeholders to explore sustainable solutions to the current situation.
The CAN president also called for comprehensive economic policies that promote inclusive growth, job creation and social well-being.
He urged the government to focus on diversifying the economy, promoting investments in sectors with the potential to create sustainable employment opportunities, and introducing mass transportation across states to reduce the cost of transportation.
Okoh further suggested measures to reduce the price of fuel, such as the removal of unnecessary levies and taxes on imported petroleum products, stabilisation of the foreign exchange market, and restoring local refineries to functional use.
“While we agree that there is no gain without pain, the pain must not be unbearable,” he added.
While appealing to Nigerians to exercise patience with the government, the CAN leader said “let us work together to build an economy that is inclusive, resilient, and offers opportunities for every Nigerian to thrive.”
