Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has allayed the fear of job losses in the implementation of the Oronsaye Report, which seeks to rationalise government agencies and parastatals.
Speaking at the fourth edition of the Ministerial Press Briefing Series in Abuja, Minister Idris emphasized that the government’s objective is not to retrench workers or add to unemployment figures. Instead, he highlighted President Tinubu’s commitment to fiscal prudence and responsible governance through a comprehensive review of government commissions, agencies, and parastatals.
“The whole idea is that government wants to reduce cost and also improve efficiency in service delivery,” Minister Idris stated.
He underscored that the approval for implementing the Oronsaye Report, after careful review, aims to ensure essential services are maintained while optimizing resource allocation. This proactive approach seeks to eliminate duplication of functions and streamline administrative processes to achieve significant cost savings.
Minister Idris pointed out the positive economic indicators that reflect the government’s reform efforts. He cited a GDP growth of 3.46% in the fourth quarter of 2023, increased capital importation, reduced petrol importation post-subsidy withdrawal, and the Nigerian Stock Exchange’s record-breaking performance.
“These achievements are not merely a stroke of luck but mainly due to the pragmatic reforms initiated by the President,” Minister Idris affirmed.
Furthermore, the Minister disclosed President Tinubu’s directives for the design of a Social Security Unemployment Programme for unemployed graduates and a Social Consumer Credit Scheme to enhance purchasing power amid temporary economic challenges.
Additionally, following a review of the National Social Investment Programme, the President has approved the resumption of direct payments of N25,000 to 15 million households.