Osinbajo, who expressed worry over the increasing food insecurity in the country, adviced the president to focus on improving the welfare of Nigerians.
The erstwhile Vice President shared his concerns while speaking at the 2024 Women in Management, Business, and Public Service (WIMBIZ) conference.
He highlighted the pressing need for targeted social welfare programs, accessible healthcare, and policies that address the rising costs of essentials such as food, transportation, and housing.
He said, “The cost of living is overwhelming Nigerians’ hope for survival.Children are suffering from the impact of rising food prices, and we must address this crisis.
“We need stronger social safety nets to ensure that the basic needs of our people are met.”
Osinbajo also spoke candidly about the country’s literacy challenges, particularly in the northern region, where over 67% of women are illiterate.
He stressed the vital importance of education for national development, warning that “a country where half the population is socially and economically disempowered due to illiteracy will find development difficult, if not impossible.”
To overcome these barriers, Osinbajo emphasized the necessity of large-scale social interventions that not only tackle literacy but also promote economic empowerment and reduce inequality.
“We must invest in education and provide opportunities for economic independence for our people, especially women. This is a critical part of creating a fairer and more prosperous Nigeria,” he added.