The Organised Private Sector of Nigeria (OPSN), including the Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NACCIMA) and the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), has issued a statement regarding the planned nationwide protest on August 1. The protest, aimed at addressing the rising hardship and inflation in the country, has garnered significant attention.
OPSN Emphasizes Importance of Dialogue
In a statement jointly signed and sent to PUNCH Online, the OPSN, which also includes the Nigeria Employers’ Consultative Association, the Nigeria Association of Small and Medium Enterprises, and the Nigerian Association of Small-Scale Industrialists, reiterated the need for constructive dialogue between the government and citizens.
“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,” the statement reads.
Advocacy for Peaceful Protest
The OPSN recognizes the right to protest but strongly advocates for it to be conducted peacefully and orderly. “We urge all parties to embrace this path of dialogue to achieve meaningful and lasting solutions for the benefit of our country. A peaceful protest will ensure that citizens can express their concerns without infringing upon the rights of others or disrupting legal and lawful activities.”
Potential Economic Impact of Protests
Highlighting the potential economic repercussions, the OPSN expressed concerns about disruptions to business operations. “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 statement emphasized. The OPSN also reminded that many businesses are still recovering from losses incurred during the hijacked #EndSARS protests.
Commitment to Engagement
The OPSN assured continued engagement with the government to find lasting solutions to Nigeria’s economic challenges. “We have continuously engaged with the government at various levels to find lasting solutions to the economic challenges facing our nation. The OPSN remains steadfast in its commitment to collaborate with all relevant stakeholders to promote a peaceful and prosperous Nigeria for all its citizens.”
Call for Security and Protection
Finally, the OPSN called on security agencies to ensure the protection of lives and property during the protest period. This call underscores the need for a safe environment for all citizens during the expression of their grievances.
By promoting dialogue and peaceful protest, the OPSN aims to foster an environment where concerns can be addressed without jeopardizing the nation’s economic stability or public safety.
