BY JULIET EKWENUGO
Kaduna
The Co-convener Mallam Nasir Abdulquadri has urged Nigerians to take an active role in understanding government policies and holding leaders accountable, saying ignorance among citizens often creates room for misinformation and manipulation.
Speaking at the North-West edition of the 1st Citizens Engagement Conference in Kaduna, Abdulquadri said the forum was set up to enlighten Nigerians on government activities and encourage civic responsibility.
“The time has come for Nigerians to know what government is doing and how it impacts their lives. When citizens are informed, they can prevent confusion, chaos, and external interference.”
He highlighted the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) of 2021 as a major milestone in the country’s oil sector, noting that investments like the Dangote Refinery are moving Nigeria closer to energy independence.
Abdulquadri stressed that Nigerians need to understand the removal of fuel subsidy and question how the funds saved are being deployed for infrastructure and national development.
He also called on the government to step out of running businesses, saying state-owned refineries have historically underperformed.
“Government should focus on regulation. Private sector refineries, like the Dangote Refinery, are more efficient and capable of delivering results,” he said.
The conference co-convener added that deregulation and privatization would help curb corruption in the sector, particularly the misuse of fuel subsidies.
“Privatization ensures that resources benefit all Nigerians and not a few individuals. Such reforms would foster national ownership and unity.
