Federal Government Assures No Mass Retrenchments Despite Oronsaye Report Implementation
The Federal Government has reassured Nigerians that the implementation of the Oronsaye Report, aimed at rationalising government agencies and parastatals, will not result in mass retrenchments. The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, addressed these concerns during the fourth edition of the Ministerial Press Briefing Series in Abuja.
Idris emphasized that the primary goal of implementing the Oronsaye Report is to reduce costs and enhance efficiency in service delivery. He clarified that the government’s objective is not to retrench workers or add to the unemployment rate. Instead, the focus is on improving the effectiveness of government operations.
The decision to implement the Oronsaye Report, which has been pending for about 11 years, reflects President Tinubu’s commitment to fiscal prudence and responsible governance. The report recommends a comprehensive review of government commissions, agencies, and parastatals to ensure optimal service delivery without compromising essential services.
According to Idris, the approval for implementing the Oronsaye Report was carefully reviewed to safeguard essential services and prioritize the nation’s interests. By eliminating duplication of functions, streamlining administrative processes, and optimizing resource allocation, the government aims to achieve significant cost savings.
The Minister highlighted the positive impact of President Tinubu’s reforms in various sectors, citing statistics from the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS). The NBS reported a GDP growth of 3.46% in the fourth quarter of 2023, up from 2.54% in the third quarter. Capital importation also increased by 66% in the fourth quarter, reversing a previous decline.
In addition, petrol importation has decreased by 50% since the fuel subsidy withdrawal, and the Nigerian Stock Exchange All Share Index reached a record high of over 100,000. These achievements are attributed to the pragmatic reforms initiated by President Tinubu, which have inspired investor confidence in the Nigerian economy.
Addressing concerns about unemployment, the Minister stated that the President has directed the design of a Social Security Unemployment Programme for unemployed graduates. He also announced plans to establish a Social Consumer Credit Scheme to enhance the purchasing power of Nigerians amidst temporary economic challenges.
Furthermore, after reviewing the National Social Investment Programme, the President approved the resumption of direct payments of N25,000 to 15 million households. These measures are part of the government’s commitment to supporting Nigerians and stimulating economic growth.
The reassurances from the Federal Government regarding the implementation of the Oronsaye Report aim to alleviate concerns about potential job losses. The government’s focus remains on improving efficiency and service delivery while safeguarding the interests of its citizens.
PM News
