Economic Hardship Driving Nigerian Youth into Hazardous Livelihoods - Atiku

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has highlighted the alarming trend of Nigerian youth resorting to dangerous and poorly regulated jobs due to escalating economic hardship. His remarks followed a heartfelt donation of N20 million to families of suspected artisanal miners who tragically died in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Minna, Niger State.

During his visit to the bereaved families, Atiku emphasized that the incident should prompt a thorough examination of the poverty and unemployment plaguing the nation. "The conditions forcing our youth into perilous occupations must be scrutinized," he stated.

Atiku shared a harrowing account from one survivor, who described the inhumane conditions within the detention facility, revealing that over 68 individuals were cramped into a small space. "No Nigerian should endure such indignity in custody," he asserted, calling for truth, justice, and accountability following the deaths of 37 young Nigerians.

He urged the government to consider why young people are increasingly driven to hazardous jobs as a means of survival. "When families struggle to afford basic needs, extraordinary risks become the norm for our youth," he lamented, insisting that the government can no longer ignore these realities.

Atiku argued that economic reforms should be evaluated based on their impact on ordinary families and workers, rather than mere announcements. "If life becomes increasingly difficult for citizens, the government must rethink its strategies," he urged.

He reiterated his commitment to easing the burden of living costs if elected president. His proposal includes a targeted production subsidy for domestically refined petroleum products, aimed at supporting local refining and creating jobs.

"My promise to make life affordable is a solemn covenant with the Nigerian people, not just a political slogan," he declared. He emphasized the need for government actions to translate into tangible benefits for consumers.

Atiku also stressed that government should focus on improving the material conditions of Nigerians. "The purpose of government is to enhance the lives of its people," he remarked, underscoring the importance of access to education, skills, and job opportunities for young Nigerians.

He concluded by calling for urgent action to prevent young people from being pushed toward dangerous and uncertain means of earning a living.