September 06, (THEWILL) – The Catholic Bishop of Sokoto Diocese, Matthew Hassan Kukah, has lamented the current hunger and hardship in the country, saying “Nigerians are hungry”.
Speaking during the formal unveiling of The Progressive Institute (TPI) in Abuja, Kukah said the reduction of the pump price of fuel will do a lot to ease the hardship.
The cleric, who recalled his experiences in the 2023 poll, said: “A girl was asked, which party do you belong to, APC, LP or PDP? She said ‘I am hungry’, so it’s important to remind our distinguished personalities here that we Nigerians are hungry. You have to find a way of reducing this price of fuel.”
Kukah commended the Dr Abdullahi Umar Ganduje-led national working committee (NWC) of the All Progressives Congress (APC) over the establishment of the Institute.
He charged those entrusted with leadership positions to administer their respective domains based on positions of knowledge rather than reliance on “kolanuts chewing advisers”, spiritualists, marabouts, and speculators.
On his part, Chairman of the progressives governors forum (PGF) and governor of Imo state, Hope Uzodinma, described President Tinubu as a consummate progressive, who means well for Nigerians.
While delivering the inaugural TPI lecture, Uzodinma said, “As Progressives, we are mindful of the fact that public services -education, health care, security, criminal justice, and social services are critical to equal opportunities in a civilised society Often, these can only be achieved through reforms which way seem difficult and unpalatable initially.
“For this reason, cynics may be skeptical of progressive policies, viewing them as unrealistic or economically unsound, To them, I say: Look at the evidence, Progressive policies, when implemented thoughtfully, have lifted millions out of poverty, spurred economic growth, and created more stable, prosperous societies across the world.
“We are not pursuing ideology for its sake – we are pursuing what works, The Progressive Institute will play a critical role in analysing policy proposals, ensuring that our progressive vision is grounded in sound economic principles and tailored to Nigeria’s unique context,
“Moreover, we acknowledge the challenges ahead. Implementing progressive policies in a diverse and complex nation like Nigeria is no small feat. We will face resistance, setbacks, and unforeseen obstacles and tailwinds.
“But it is precisely because of these challenges that we need The Progressive Institute, It will serve as our compass, guiding us through difficult decisions and helping us stay true to our progressive value even in the face of adversity.”
Highlights of the event graced by the Secretary to the government of the federation (SGF), Sen George Akume, Governors Lucky Aidatiwa, Dr Abdullahi Umar Ganduje-led national working committee (NWC) and several party chieftains, was the unveiling of the TPI by Vice President Kashim Shettima, represented by the Minister of Agriculture, Abubakar Kyari.
