Speech Delivered by Francis Uzor, Coordinator of Ohaji Egbema Elites Forum on Wednesday, 14th August 2024. Francis Uzor, Coordinator of Ohaji Egbema Elites Forum, calls for unity and patience in support of economic reforms and highlights the need for constructive dialogue and effective local leadership in Imo State.
Speech Delivered by Francis Uzor Coordinator of Ohaji Egbema Elites Forum .
Distinguished Guests, Respected Elders, Dynamic Youths, Gentlemen of the Press, Ladies and Gentlemen, I greet you all with a deep sense of responsibility and hope for the future of our great nation and our dear state.
Today, it is no longer news that we find ourselves at a critical juncture in our national journey and history. The economic reforms introduced by President Bola Tinubu’s administration, especially the removal of the fuel subsidy, have brought about significant challenges. We feel the weight of these policies in our daily lives, from the rising cost of living to the uncertainties clouding our economic horizon.
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But as we stand here, let us not lose sight of the bigger picture. Change, as we all know, does not come easy. It demands sacrifice, patience, and a steadfast belief in the promise of a better tomorrow.
As a vital forum representing the oil-rich area of our state, we have engaged with relevant stakeholders at different levels and discussed at length with our leaders, both political and economic. We are confident that the policies of the Bola Tinubu administration, though difficult now, are designed to lay the foundation for a more prosperous and equitable Nigeria. The journey may be tough, but the destination is one of economic stability and growth for all.
We appeal to you, especially our youths, to embrace patience during this transformative period. It is crucial that we engage constructively with the government at all levels. Dialogue, not discord, is the key to ensuring that our voices are heard and our concerns addressed. Let us channel our energy into meaningful discussions that will help shape policies in ways that benefit us all. By supporting the Bola Tinubu-led administration, we are not just supporting a government—we are supporting a vision for a stronger and more resilient Nigeria.
Furthermore, it is important to recognize and commend the outstanding efforts of our Governor, Senator Hope Uzodimma, who has been instrumental in driving economic development in the oil-rich communities of Imo State. His leadership has attracted significant projects to our state, such as the dredging of the Oguta Lake/Urashi River, the establishment of the ANOH Gas Processing Plant, and the development of the Urashi Oil and Gas Free Trade Zone. These projects will not only enhance our state’s economy but will also provide much-needed employment and opportunities for our people.
We also want to use this medium to appeal to the state and federal government to tackle head-on the menace of oil bunkering and oil theft in our region, which has become a cankerworm in the nation’s economy. The forum suggests that the government revisit the idea of granting amnesty to our restive youths and establish a lasting structure that will sustain the amnesty program, irrespective of any administration in power. This will go a long way in helping our unemployed and restive youths in the Niger Delta region.
As we look ahead to the forthcoming local government elections in Imo State, I urge all indigenes across our 27 local government areas to seize this opportunity to elect leaders who are truly worthy and capable of driving the policies of our government to the grassroots. It is at the local level that the impact of these policies is most felt, and it is here that our collective future will be shaped.
In conclusion, let us remain united in our resolve to build a better Imo State and a better Nigeria. With patience, constructive engagement, and unwavering support for our leaders, we will overcome the challenges of today and secure a brighter, more prosperous future for generations to come.
Thank you.
May God bless Imo State and our beloved Nigeria.
May God help Ohaji Egbema