As the nation grapples with an escalating cost of living, Dr. Ugo Young Atakulu, Executive Chairman of the YUVA Group and Managing Director of Molineux Hospitality, has called on the Nigerian government to adopt people-focused policies.
Speaking passionately today to the media in Abuja, Dr. Atakulu emphasized the urgency of addressing the economic hardships Nigerians face daily, particularly regarding basic needs such as food, healthcare, and education.
In his address, Dr. Atakulu underscored the severe economic strain on families, as inflation continues to erode their purchasing power, forcing many to choose between essentials. He criticized the government’s current emphasis on macroeconomic growth indicators, stating that such metrics are disconnected from the reality experienced by average Nigerians. Instead, he urged the government to prioritize policies that directly alleviate daily burdens and support local production to foster stability and resilience within the economy.
“We are a nation with untold potential, but that potential can only be realized when we prioritize the needs of the people,” Atakulu declared. “Policies must be designed with the common Nigerian in mind, aimed not only at national growth but at creating tangible, everyday improvements in the lives of our citizens.”
Reflecting on the significance of October as a month when Nigerians recall the #EndSARS movement and recent #endbadgovernance protests, Dr. Atakulu highlighted the deep-seated frustrations that drove thousands to the streets. Beyond police brutality, these protests underscored a demand for broader governance reforms, transparency, and justice. Atakulu implored the government to acknowledge these grievances and initiate reforms that promote a more inclusive and equitable Nigeria.
Dr. Atakulu also emphasized the critical role of urban democracy principles, which promote civic engagement, transparency, and participatory governance. According to him, adopting these principles would strengthen local governance, empowering citizens and addressing issues such as social inequality and affordability through inclusive policy-making.
While advocating for government intervention, Dr. Atakulu encouraged Nigerians to take proactive steps amid these challenges. He highlighted skill acquisition, particularly in tech and digital fields, as a practical pathway to economic empowerment. Additionally, he urged communities to come together through cooperative societies and grassroots initiatives to build resilience and support systems. “Now more than ever, it is essential for communities to come together, pooling resources to withstand economic shocks,” he noted.
Dr. Atakulu announced his own commitment to uplifting Nigerians through a new skill development program set to launch in 2025, aimed at training over 1,000 youth in fields such as digital marketing, programming, and other emerging industries. He expressed confidence that this program, combined with job creation initiatives, would provide young Nigerians with tools for economic independence and contribute to a more robust local economy.
In his concluding remarks, Dr. Atakulu reiterated the need for community cooperation to overcome economic hardships, adding, “True transformation requires a collective effort. While we demand transparency and accountability from our leaders, we must also take steps ourselves, seeking out opportunities in education and innovation to improve our lives.”
With this call for action, Dr. Atakulu appealed to both government and citizens to work together in building a Nigeria where every individual can live with dignity and opportunity.
