Hunger protest: NACCIMA, OPS call for dialogue with FG

The Organised Private Sector of Nigeria, including the Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture, and the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria, have disclosed their stance on the planned nationwide protest scheduled for August 1, against the hardship and rising inflation in the country.

In a statement jointly signed by the organisations and sent to PUNCH Online on Monday, the OPS reiterated the need for dialogue and engagement between the government and concerned citizens.

Other members of the OPS include the Nigeria Employers’ Consultative Association, the Nigeria Association of Small and Medium Enterprises, and the Nigerian Association of Small-Scale Industrialists.

The statement reads, “The Organised Private Sector of Nigeria, encompassing the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria, Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture, Nigeria Employers’ Consultative Association, Nigeria Association of Small and Medium Enterprises, and Nigerian Association of Small-Scale Industrialists, has carefully considered the planned protest by certain citizens in response to current challenges affecting public welfare.

“As an apolitical umbrella body representing major business membership organisations in Nigeria, the OPSN prioritises the importance of dialogue and engagement between the government and concerned citizens. We firmly believe that open and constructive dialogue is the most effective tool for addressing the nation’s challenges and encouraging the desired changes. We urge all parties to embrace this path of dialogue to achieve meaningful and lasting solutions for the benefit of our country.

“However, should the decision to protest be made, we earnestly appeal for it to be conducted in a peaceful and orderly atmosphere. A peaceful protest will ensure that citizens can express their concerns without infringing upon the rights of others or disrupting legal and lawful activities. It will also allow the government to respond appropriately and facilitate a productive engagement that could lead to future collaboration on the outcomes of such engagements.

“As representatives of the business community, we are acutely aware of the potential economic impact of mass protests. Our members are crucial drivers of economic growth and job creation; therefore, any disruption to business operations could have significant repercussions on the economy and the livelihoods of the people.”

The OPS added, “We have continuously engaged with the government at various levels to find lasting solutions to the economic challenges facing our nation. It is crucial to remember that many businesses are still recovering from the substantial losses incurred during the hijacked #EndSARS protests a few years ago.

“We call upon security agencies to ensure the protection of lives and property during this period. The OPSN remains steadfast in its commitment to collaborate with all relevant stakeholders to promote a peaceful and prosperous Nigeria for all its citizens.”