Nobel laureate Professor Wole Soyinka has called on government officials at all levels to cease underestimating the intelligence of citizens, emphasizing the need to narrow the gap between leaders and the populace.
Speaking as a guest lecturer at Punch’s 50th anniversary event themed ‘Recovering the Narrative,’ Soyinka stressed the importance of government proximity to the people.”It’s high time leaders stopped deceiving us to foster closer ties between government and the populace.
We cannot afford to turn a blind eye to the informal dissolution of our nation. Let nations crumble so that humanity can flourish,” Soyinka remarked.
“I refrain from using the term ‘restructuring’ as it’s often conveniently abandoned by politicians once in office.
The same applies to ‘reconstruction’; it’s time to address these issues seriously, not merely as slogans.
“Responding to Soyinka’s remarks, Minister of Information and National Orientation, Muhammed Idris Malagi, praised Soyinka’s constructive role in nation-building and highlighted President Bola Tinubu’s proactive governance in alleviating Nigerian hardships.
“Punch’s endurance over 50 years reflects resilience, trust, hard work, and dedication to Nigeria’s progress, values President Bola Tinubu embodies,” Malagi stated.
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“Though Nigeria faces challenges, these are not unique to our nation. Other countries, like the United Kingdom, grapple with economic recessions.
President Tinubu’s decisive actions, including removing fuel subsidies upon assuming office, have revitalized our economy.
Despite the initial hurdles, we are witnessing positive impacts, and the government remains committed to steering the country toward prosperity.
“Malagi continued, “While challenges persist, the government is proactive in addressing them. We anticipate a significant policy shift in the petroleum sector soon.
Notably, the recent suspension of the Nigerian Labour Congress’s strike demonstrates constructive dialogue and progress.
“Punch chairman Mrs. Angela Omoshalewa concluded by urging participants to embrace the lecture’s call to action, emphasizing the potential to reshape Nigeria’s narrative positively.
