The cost of living is overwhelming Nigerians’ hope for survival – Osinbajo

Former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to urgently address Nigerians’ welfare, emphasizing that the country faces severe economic pressures. Speaking at the 2024 Women in Management, Business, and Public Service (WIMBIZ) conference, Osinbajo outlined the critical need for social welfare programs and affordable healthcare, as many Nigerians struggle with the rising costs of essential items, including food, transportation, and housing.

“The cost of living is overwhelming Nigerians’ hope for survival,” Osinbajo remarked, underscoring the urgent issue of food insecurity, which he noted is hitting vulnerable groups, especially children, the hardest. He urged for stronger support systems to ensure that basic needs are met.

Osinbajo also highlighted Nigeria’s literacy crisis, particularly in the northern regions, where over 67% of women are illiterate. “A country where half the population is socially and economically disempowered due to illiteracy will find development difficult, if not impossible,” he said.

He urged for comprehensive social interventions to address these systemic challenges, stressing that initiatives in literacy and economic empowerment are essential for Nigeria’s progress.