As part of preparations for the much talked about 1st August 2024 nationwide protest against economic policies of the Federal Government, the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) has initiated consultations and instructed its 104 affiliated youth organisations to remain on standby.
It was reported that the proposed protest has been causing considerable tension and eliciting diverse reactions from Nigerians across board. Various groups involved in the campaign have indicated that the demonstration is a response to the rising cost of living and the economic difficulties being experienced by the people.
In a communiqué released on Thursday following an emergency meeting of the National Executive, 36 state chairmen and other stakeholders held via Zoom from Wednesday into the early hours of Thursday, the NYCN expressed deep concern over the severe socio-economic challenges and widespread hardship faced by citizens, especially the youth.
The communiqué, signed by NYCN President Sukubo Sara-Igbe Sukubo, announced that the Council will hold a world press conference on Wednesday, July 31, 2024, to address the nation on current issues and its stance on the upcoming protest.
“On 24th July 2024, the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) convened a crucial meeting with its National Executive, 36 state chairmen and other key stakeholders to deliberate on the state of the nation and the looming nationwide protest scheduled for August 1, 2024.
“The meeting was held via Zoom and lasted for several hours, addressing the urgent concerns of Nigerian youths and the overall socio-economic and political climate of the country.
“NYCN leaders acknowledged that the current socio-economic challenges facing Nigeria, including rising inflation, insecurity, unemployment, and the general hardship experienced by citizens, particularly the youth, have reached alarming levels.
“These issues have sparked widespread agitation and calls for a nationwide protest. The NYCN, as the umbrella body representing over 100 youth organizations across the country, recognises the urgency of these matters and the need for a coordinated response.
“Top of the discussion was economic hardship. The economic situation in Nigeria has deteriorated, with inflation making it difficult for many citizens to afford basic necessities, including food.
“Also of great concern to the youth leaders is unemployment, particularly among young graduates, which has reached critical levels, contributing to frustration and restlessness among the youth.
“After extensive deliberations, the following resolutions were adopted: The NYCN commits to, in the next 4 days, consult widely with various stakeholders, including government officials, security agencies, civil society organizations, and the media, to ensure a comprehensive understanding of the issues.
“A world press conference will be held on Wednesday, 31st July 2024, where the NYCN leadership will address the nation on the current state of affairs and state its position on the planned protest.
“NYCN leaders advise their millions of members, 774 local government branches, wards, state and zonal chapters, NYCN in diaspora, Man O’ War, Boy Scouts, Royal Rangers, Islamic Youth League, and 100 other affiliated youth organisations to be on standby and await further direction.
“The press conference will serve as an opportunity to present the collective position of Nigerian youths and to outline our next line of action.
“The National Youth Council of Nigeria reaffirms its commitment to representing the interests of Nigerian youths and to advocating for positive change in the nation.
“We recognize the challenges faced by our country and the need for urgent action to address these issues. As we prepare to address the nation, we call on all stakeholders to support our efforts and to work together towards a better Nigeria,” the communique read.
