Mr. Oyakhilome Bello, a prominent figure in the All Progressives Congress (APC) based in the United States, has urged the leaders of the #EndBadGovernance movement to reconsider their approach, emphasizing that the current government is dedicated to alleviating the hardships stemming from its economic strategies.
Bello made his remarks during a meeting with the national chairman of the APC, Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, on Friday. The gathering also included notable party members such as Professor Adesegun Labinjo, Alhaji Sama’ila Maigyara, Khairat Animashaun-Ajiboye, and Felix Miliku.
As a Youth Leader, Bello expressed optimism that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu would fulfill the commitments he made in his recent national address, particularly in addressing the concerns of the youth. He stated, “Relief is on the horizon with the imminent operations of the Port Harcourt refinery and plans to subsidize rice prices to ₦40,000 along with other essential commodities.”
“The government has truly heard your concerns. Now is the time for reflection and dialogue, as avenues for discussion have been opened,” he continued. “It’s far more productive to engage in conversation than to resort to conflict. Without dialogue, we risk stagnation in our current predicament.”
Despite being based in the U.S., Bello assured the public that he empathizes with their struggles. He highlighted the administration’s various initiatives, including a student loan program designed to benefit young Nigerians.
“I encourage the youth to leverage these initiatives, irrespective of political affiliations, as their voices have been acknowledged by the government, which is a fundamental aspect of democracy,” he remarked.
He pointed out that the Tinubu administration’s student loan scheme is reminiscent of significant educational policies introduced in the 1960s aimed at fostering education across the nation.
Bello noted, “The Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) specifically targets underprivileged students who might otherwise miss out on educational opportunities. The allocation of ₦2.026 billion to six tertiary institutions for school fee payments is a promising step.”
“Let us give the government a chance and trust in its ability to create positive change for our collective future,” he urged. “The Tinubu administration is committed to its responsibilities, even in the face of formidable challenges.”
Reflecting on the meeting with the APC National Working Committee, Bello described it as productive, reaffirming the delegation’s dedication to elevating the party’s presence in the United States and achieving global recognition.
“We appreciate the warm welcome and commitment to collaboration from Ganduje and our national leaders. Together, we will ensure our party becomes a global household name,” he concluded.
