Amidst the prevailing economic challenges in Nigeria, Vice-President Kashim Shettima has acknowledged the discontent among the impoverished population towards government officials and the elite, who constitute a minority.

The acknowledgment came during the Executive Intelligence Management Course 16 graduation ceremony in Abuja, organized by the National Institute for Security Studies.

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This marks the first time a senior government official openly recognizes the economic hardship exacerbated since President Bola Tinubu assumed office on May 29, 2023.

In his inauguration speech, President Tinubu announced the permanent removal of petrol subsidies, leading to a rapid increase in petrol prices.

The Federal Government allowed the naira to float against major international currencies, resulting in a significant depreciation and exacerbating inflation.

The naira recently hit an all-time low of N1,099.05/$ at the official forex window, representing a 30.36% decline from its rate before Tinubu’s inauguration.

As families grapple with rising costs, Vice-President Shettima urged a focus on job creation and instilling hope to address insecurity.

He acknowledged the anger of the poor and emphasized the responsibility of leadership in improving governance quality within a limited timeframe.

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Shettima discouraged calls for secession, criticizing those advocating for the breakup of the nation. He emphasized the need for citizens to support the President’s efforts to reshape the country and urged patience.

At the same event, the Director-General of the Department of State Services, Yusuf Bichi, disclosed plans for the agency to produce unmanned aerial vehicles, AK-47s, and other weapons to reduce reliance on foreign sources.

Bichi assured support for training programs, emphasized the importance of research and development, and pledged continued intelligence support to other security agencies.

He also called for collaboration to restore peace in conflict-ridden areas, urging residents of Plateau and Kaduna states to turn hostilities into job opportunities.

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Bichi emphasized the significance of avoiding disparagement of leaders in a democratic dispensation, encouraging patience for positive outcomes.