Ensure judicious use of N5bn palliative fund – Niger Delta students tell govs

Students from the Niger Delta region of the country have appealed to State governors to ensure the transparent and effective utilization of the N5 billion palliative for the benefit of the people.

While lauding President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the approval of the palliative fund for each State of the federation, the students under the umbrella of the Niger Delta Students Union Government, NIDSUG, urged the President to closely monitor the funds.

Recall that the N185 palliative fund aimed to mitigate the impact of the removal of fuel subsidy was released a few days ago by the President.

The newly elected National President of NIDSUG, Idowu Ayemobuwa, emphasised the significance of President Tinubu’s decision during his inauguration ceremony held in Akure, the capital of Ondo State.

Ayemobuwa commended the President for his proactive approach in addressing the challenges posed by the removal of the fuel subsidy.

“We, as a united student body, welcome President Bola Tinubu’s decision to allocate N5 billion to each of the 36 States.

“This step is not only commendable but will also significantly contribute to alleviating the adverse effects of the petrol subsidy removal on the Nigerian people.

“President Tinubu must ensure that the fund is properly used to ameliorate the sufferings of the people who are badly affected by the policy.

“The President should not hesitate to ensure that all refineries work. If the refineries are working, I am very sure that the price of petrol will come down. This is the only way people will enjoy his government,” he said.

In his acceptance speech delivered at the event, the new President of NIDSUG expressed his commitment to addressing the welfare concerns of students in the region.

He also pledged to utilize his position to champion initiatives aimed at providing adequate support to students through scholarships and bursaries.

Ayemobuwa lamented the continuous neglect and abandonment suffered by the region under successive governments, asserting that it has been excluded from the national development agenda.

He emphasised the urgent need for attention to be given to critical issues plaguing the Niger Delta, particularly environmental pollution and the encroachment of the sea.

He expressed deep concern that past administrations failed to prioritize these pressing concerns, resulting in severe ecological consequences and hardships for the people of the area.