President Bola Tinubu has urged Nigerians to embrace energy-saving habits to cushion the impact of soaring electricity tariffs and economic difficulties.

Speaking during his maiden presidential media chat on NTA Monday night, Tinubu advised citizens to actively manage their electricity consumption to reduce costs.

“It’s not negative to learn to manage. You learn to control your electricity bill—switch off the light. Let’s learn to manage,” the president said from his Ikoyi residence in Lagos.

The president’s remarks come amid mounting frustration over the recent hike in electricity tariffs and the removal of fuel subsidies, which have triggered inflation and economic strain for many Nigerians.

Tinubu stressed the need for discipline and accountability in energy consumption as a step towards adapting to the changing economic environment.

The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) announced an increase in tariffs for Band A customers on April 3, 2024, raising the cost per kilowatt-hour from N66 to N225. This decision has drawn sharp criticism, especially as Nigerians already struggle with high fuel prices and a weakened naira.

Despite public frustration, Tinubu maintained his stance against price control, stating, “I don’t believe in price control; we will work hard to supply the market.”

The president also reacted to the recent stampedes in Oyo, Anambra, and Abuja, which occurred during the distribution of palliatives. He attributed the incidents to indiscipline and poor organization, calling for better coordination to prevent future occurrences.

Tinubu’s comments underscore his administration’s focus on long-term economic reforms, emphasizing efficiency and self-regulation as coping strategies in the face of rising costs.

While Nigerians have expressed concerns about the immediate impact of these reforms, the president urged citizens to adopt measures that promote sustainability and cost management as the government works to stabilize the economy.

President Bola Tinubu has expressed deep sorrow over the tragic stampedes that occurred in Abuja and Okija, Anambra State, leading to the loss of many lives and injuries.
In response, he cancelled all official engagements in Lagos, including his appearance at the 2024 Lagos Boat Regatta, which was scheduled to take place at his Queen’s Drive residence in Ikoyi.

A statement from his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, revealed that dignitaries, including Lagos State government officials and white cap chiefs, were already in attendance when the President decided to cancel his participation after receiving updates on the tragic events.

In his message of condolence, President Tinubu urged local and state authorities to adopt stricter crowd control measures immediately.
He expressed concern that the stampede at the Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Maitama, Abuja, and the incident at a community center in Okija, mirrored similar tragedies like the one recently in Ibadan, Oyo State.
“These incidents could have been avoided had proper safety protocols been followed by event organizers,” Tinubu said. He also offered his prayers for the repose of the deceased and wished the injured a swift recovery.
He further emphasized that charitable and humanitarian organizations must adhere to safety guidelines, especially during such high-attendance events, to prevent future occurrences.
As part of his commemoration of the Lagos Boat Regatta theme “Our Water, Our Heritage, Our Life”, the President hoped that the event would proceed smoothly and safely, despite the cancellations.

The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) has reiterated its commitment to promoting patriotism and integrity as vital elements for Nigeria’s progress.

This message was delivered by the Chief Corporate Communications Officer of NNPCL, Olufemi Soneye, after the staging of Prof. Femi Osofisan’s classic play, Once Upon Four Robbers, in Abuja.

Speaking on the significance of the play, Soneye emphasized its alignment with the Federal Government’s “Change Begins With Us” initiative, which aims to encourage moral and civic responsibility among citizens.

“We are honored to be part of this project,” Soneye stated. “This play serves as a reminder that positive change begins with individuals. It highlights the importance of patriotism, moral values, and integrity in building a better society.”

He added, “For our country to develop, we must embody these values in our daily lives. NNPCL will continue to support initiatives like this that inspire positive transformation.”

Expressing gratitude to Prof. Osofisan, the production team, and the audience, Soneye remarked, “We are proud to have contributed to this production and will remain committed to supporting similar endeavors that promote these ideals.”

Prof. Femi Osofisan, the renowned playwright, reflected on the continued relevance of his play, originally written decades ago, in addressing contemporary social issues.

“I’m surprised that this play, written so many years ago, still resonates today,” Osofisan said. “It reflects the enduring nature of the challenges we face as a society.”

The play’s director, Dire Badejo, shared his inspiration for selecting Once Upon Four Robbers as a medium to spark societal introspection.

“At the start of the year, I sought a play that would critically examine the root causes of our societal issues,” Badejo explained. “After much consideration, I chose this work for its powerful message. Thanks to NNPCL’s sponsorship, we were able to realize this vision.”

The three-day production at the NAF Conference Centre in Abuja featured a talented cast, including Tunji Sotimirin, Frances Onwoche, Ropo Ewenla, Bukky Ogunnote, and Yemi Shodimu. Following its successful run in Abuja, the play is set to be staged at the Muson Centre in Lagos, offering another opportunity for audiences to engage with its thought-provoking themes.

Badejo concluded, “This production is a call for self-reflection and a reminder of the power of individual actions in shaping our collective future.”