Economic Hardship: Kogi NGOs Network Calls for State-Specific Solution, Proposes 5 Remediation Strategies
By Odimayo O.F
The coalition of civil society organizations, Kogi NGOs Network (KONGONET) has called on state governments to proffer solutions to the current economic hardship in Nigeria.
In a position paper presented at her 4th annual general meeting in Lokoja on Thursday, KONGONET said the removal of subsidy on premium motor spirit (PMS) and floating of the Naira have drastically affected the economic landscape of Nigeria, evolving into a myriad of factors, such as inflation, unemployment, and inadequate infrastructure.
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The position paper signed by Amb. Idris Ozovehe Muraina and Reuben Joshua, Chairperson and Secretary respectively, noted that Kogi state, like many others, has felt the brunt of these challenges leading to increased poverty and reduced quality of life for its citizens.
KONGONET called for state-specific remedial strategies to address the current economic hardship in Kogi state.
The coalition further proposed comprehensive remedial strategies centered on agriculture, affordable transportation, housing, health insurance, and empowerment schemes tailored to Kogi state’s unique needs.
“Recent data indicate that the cost of living in Nigeria has surged, with food prices skyrocketing and basic amenities becoming increasingly unaffordable. In Kogi State, this economic hardship manifests through high transportation cost, unemployment rates and limited access to essential services, exacerbating the plight of vulnerable populations. The need for immediate and effective strategies to alleviate these hardships cannot be overstated.
“Agriculture remains the backbone of Kogi State’s economy and presents a viable pathway to economic recovery. By enhancing agricultural productivity, we can achieve food security, create jobs, and boost local economies,” the position paper read.
KONGONET called on Kogi state government to invest in agricultural infrastructure, prioritizing investment in irrigation systems, storage facilities, and access roads to ensure that farmers can produce and transport their goods efficiently.
“The modern agricultural systems have gone mechanical, the state should make heavy investment in mechanization.
“The state government should also establish training programs for farmers on modern agricultural practices, pest control, and sustainable farming methods can enhance productivity, as well as providing low-interest loans and subsidies for seeds and fertilizers will enable farmers to increase their output and profitability.”
KONGONET also proposed a remedial strategy that will ensure cheaper transportation systems in the state, adding that efficient transportation is critical to reducing the cost of goods and improving access to markets.
“Kogi state must focus on enhancing rural road infrastructure, improving existing roads and constructing new ones will ease movement of agricultural products and reduce transportation costs.
“Also, the state must establish a subsidized public transport system that will alleviate the burden of transportation costs on residents, ensuring that essential goods and services remain accessible.”
The coalition of civil societies further proposed affordable housing scheme, noting that housing insecurity is a significant issue that contributes to economic hardship.
KONGONET called on Kogi state government to consider developing affordable housing projects, collaborate with private developers to create low-cost housing units that will provide shelter to low-income families and stimulate the local economy.
It also called for incentives for home ownership by implementing schemes that offer financial assistance for first-time homebuyers can encourage property ownership and stability within communities.
While proposing subsidized health insurance scheme, KONGONET noted that healthcare accessibility is crucial for a productive workforce.
“A subsidized health insurance scheme should be implemented to provide basic health coverage and community health initiatives by ensuring that all citizens have access to essential health services without financial strain, will improve overall public health and productivity. Also, establishing mobile health clinics and community health programs can enhance service delivery, particularly in rural areas.”
The fifth remedial strategy proposed by KONGONET was age-appropriate empowerment schemes.
The coalition stated that empowering citizens, especially the youth and women, is vital for a long-term recovery strategy for the state.
“Empowerment should be data driven, the MDAs in partnership with civil society organizations should collaboratively coordinate data collection of vulnerable groups across the state and carry out a robust economic stimulating empowerment that cut-across skills acquisition programs and other entrepreneurial initiatives that will be age- appropriate.”
KONGONET expressed its willingness to partner with the state government to share her experience, skills and social capital to ensure government continually meets its obligation to the citizens and residence of the state.
