Cost of living crisis in Nigeria: 1st August protest & concerns

As Nigeria gears up for a nationwide protest scheduled for the 1st of August, the country is bracing for a demonstration against the mounting cost of living crisis. The protest, which is also aimed at shedding light on governance issues, has sparked conversations about the necessary adjustments required to alleviate the hardships faced by the citizens and streamline government expenditure. Yemi Adamoleku, the Executive Director of Enough is Enough Nigeria, recently joined CNBC Africa to delve into the core issues driving the protest and the urgent need for reforms. The protest, fueled by concerns over inflation, escalating unemployment rates, and widespread corruption and poor governance, reflects the growing discontent among the Nigerian population. Adamoleku highlighted that at the heart of the protest lies a deep-seated hunger and frustration stemming from the government's perceived failure to address the basic needs of its people. From soaring fuel prices and electricity tariffs to deficiencies in education and healthcare, the grievances encompass a wide spectrum of societal challenges rooted in governance failures. Drawing parallels to recent protests in Kenya, Adamoleku underscored the global trend of civil unrest fueled by demands for better governance. He emphasized that the protests in Kenya, which led to significant changes in the government's structure, serve as an inspiration for Nigerians seeking to hold their leaders accountable for their actions. With a focus on addressing systemic issues rather than isolated incidents, the protests aim to push for tangible reforms that prioritize the welfare and security of the citizens. Reflecting on the aftermath of the #EndSARS protests in Nigeria, Adamoleku acknowledged the skepticism among some regarding the efficacy of protests in driving lasting change. However, he emphasized that protests serve as a crucial tool for raising awareness and catalyzing initial shifts in governance. He stressed the importance of sustained civic engagement and accountability post-protests to ensure that the momentum for change is not lost. One key aspect of the protesters' demands is a call for a reduction in the cost of governance. Adamoleku pointed out the need to streamline government operations by implementing recommendations such as the Oran Sanye report, which advocates for reducing redundant agencies and departments. He criticized the government's inertia in adopting such cost-cutting measures, citing the proliferation of bureaucratic entities over the years despite promises to trim down the bloated system. As Nigeria braces for the upcoming protests, the overarching themes of accountability, transparency, and citizen welfare loom large. The mobilization of citizens for collective action underscores a growing demand for meaningful reforms and a shift towards a more responsive and responsible governance framework. The outcome of the protests will not only shape the immediate policy landscape but also set the tone for citizens' continued engagement in shaping the country's future.