The National Orientation Agency (NOA) has appealed to residents of Kebbi State and Nigerians generally to remain calm as petrol prices continue to experience periodic changes.
Muhammed Nasir Karofi, Director of the NOA in Kebbi State, made the appeal in a statement issued in Birnin Kebbi, where he explained the economic factors behind the current fuel price situation.
Karofi said petrol prices were responding to movements in the global crude oil market following the deregulation of Nigeria’s downstream petroleum industry.
He explained that international oil prices, global supply conditions, foreign exchange rates and market replacement costs could all influence the amount consumers pay for petrol.
The NOA official stressed that Nigeria’s experience was part of a wider regional trend, noting that countries such as Benin, Niger, Togo and Cameroon were also facing fuel price adjustments and inflation.
He acknowledged that the changes had increased the financial burden on families and businesses but said the reforms were intended to address fundamental weaknesses in the country’s finances.
According to him, the elimination of unsustainable subsidies would reduce fiscal pressure and enable government to devote more resources to priority areas, including infrastructure, education, security and social welfare.
He said the Kebbi State Government was implementing several measures to reduce the effects of the economic situation on its people.
Karofi identified public transportation support as one of the key interventions, saying the government was expanding mass transit initiatives and improving facilities such as the Birnin Kebbi Central Motor Park.
He said healthcare delivery was another area receiving attention. Through the Harmonised Health Sector Operational Plan, the government is rehabilitating community health facilities, conducting medical outreaches and expanding the reach of the Kebbi State Contributory Healthcare Scheme.
Security agencies, according to him, are also receiving logistical assistance to maintain peace, protect farmlands and safeguard residents across the state.
He added that the state administration was implementing agricultural support, welfare and empowerment programmes targeted at vulnerable residents, women and youths in all 21 local government areas.
Karofi said the Federal Government was similarly pursuing long-term reforms intended to strengthen Nigeria’s economy. He mentioned the Student Loan Scheme, improvements in security infrastructure and efforts to diversify the national economy.
He acknowledged that citizens might not immediately feel the benefits of major economic reforms, but maintained that the policies were designed to create a stronger and more sustainable economy in the long term.
The NOA director therefore urged Nigerians to exercise patience and continue supporting peaceful and constructive efforts to improve the country’s economic situation.
He also appealed to community leaders, civil society organisations and youth groups to promote understanding, civic responsibility and public confidence while the reforms are being implemented.
