The Amalgamated Arewa Youth Group has commended President Bola Tinubu for the economic reforms introduced by his administration, describing them as deliberate and strategic steps towards national economic recovery.

The group, which comprises youth organisations across the 19 northern states, the Federal Capital Territory, and the Northern diaspora, also passed a vote of confidence in finance minister Wale Edun.

In a statement issued on Monday, signed by its convener, Abdul Ladduga, the group stated that recent economic indicators showed that the reforms were beginning to yield tangible results.

Mr Ladduga said the attainment of the federal government’s 2025 revenue target by August was a significant milestone, which he attributed to improved performance in the non-oil sector.

According to him, the development is a reflection of a stabilising and increasingly predictable economy, aligning with Mr Tinubu’s assertion that the country is moving in the right direction.

He said the elimination of what he described as a “corrupt forex regime” had created a level playing field for genuine investors and entrepreneurs and removed undue privileges formerly enjoyed through political connections.

“The current foreign exchange regime is a fundamental cleanse of the system. Nobody is trading papers anymore, and access to forex no longer depends on cronyism,” Mr Ladugga added.

The group expressed its support for the Renewed Hope Agenda, saying the current reforms were laying the groundwork for infrastructure development, healthcare improvements, food security, and enhanced national security.

The AAYG described  Mr Edun as the architect and diligent executor of the reforms, citing his technical competence and fiscal discipline as instrumental to the economic transition currently underway.

“Chief Edun’s stewardship is proving that leadership grounded in expertise and integrity can deliver tangible results for the nation,” Mr Ladugga said.

The group condemned calls for Mr Edun’s removal, describing such demands as “premature, politically motivated, and a threat to national interest”.

According to the group, those calling for the minister’s resignation are beneficiaries of the past economic order who feel threatened by transparency and accountability.

The group listed several reasons for rejecting such calls, including their political undertones, lack of factual basis, and potential to derail ongoing reforms.

It further alleged that former beneficiaries of the now-removed fuel subsidy were regrouping and sponsoring smear campaigns against government officials to force a reversal of the policy.

The group urged Nigerians to support the government’s efforts and remain patient, stating that the long-term benefits of the current economic direction would be felt by future generations.

“AAYG stands firmly behind the economic direction of the Tinubu administration and the competent management of the economy by Chief Wale Edun,” Mr Ladugga stated.

(NAN)