Why you should address domestic concerns

Dear Mr President,   As you step into the office, you have boldly decided to remove subsidies on Petroleum Motor Spirit. There are other numerous pressing issues to tackle at home. Currently, our priority should be addressing domestic concerns, particularly the plight of over 130 million Nigerians living below the poverty line. We must also […]

Dear Mr President,

 

As you step into the office, you have boldly decided to remove subsidies on Petroleum Motor Spirit. There are other numerous pressing issues to tackle at home.

Currently, our priority should be addressing domestic concerns, particularly the plight of over 130 million Nigerians living below the poverty line. We must also address the challenges of security, inflation, unemployment, non-functioning refineries, dilapidated power sectors, acute infrastructure deficits, the educational sector, healthcare, housing, and more. We have more than enough difficult situations to take care of at home than to worry about the constitutional government in Niger Republic.

Your Excellency Sir, we are yet to deal with the issues of our citizens who are in captivity by Boko Haram; many Chibok girls are yet to return to their families, and those who were abducted by the bandits are still under captivity. Additionally, the activities of IPOB in the South East are seriously worrisome; Illegal oil operators (oil theft) are reaping huge profits without facing consequences for their actions.

In relation to the Niger Republic, I propose that Nigeria adopts a strategy of downplaying the issue and refraining from interfering in their domestic affairs. Niger is a close ally of Nigeria, currently hosting over 300,000 Nigerian refugees. While we may be concerned about Niger’s democracy, our main priority should be ensuring internal security in Nigeria.

The consequences of oil subsidy removal remain a burning issue in the country. Nigerians are still grappling with the pains and agonies resulting from this decision. I believe Nigeria should refrain from involving itself in Niger’s internal affairs.

Mr President, we have our pressing issues to handle in Nigeria, and historically, we have resolved military interventions and crises without external interference. Therefore, we should let Nigeriens handle their problems. Your Excellency Sir, it would not be a wise decision for Nigeria to resort to confrontational measures with our peaceful neighbour, with whom we have enjoyed good relations for years. I urge the leadership to thoroughly think about this matter and abstain from meddling in their internal politics, as it is an absolutely fruitless venture for Nigeria, sir.

I am writing this letter because Nigeria is currently in a volatile state, and any engagement in conflict may lead to additional issues that threaten our existence as a nation. My candid advice is to apply diplomacy, diplomacy and only diplomacy to the matters regarding the Niger Republic.

Thank you very much, Mr President. May the Federal Republic of Nigeria thrive and endure.

 

Kaka Bolori, Maiduguri