An economist, Ndubisi Nwokoma, has called on the federal government to implement immediate measures to provide relief and ease the burden of rising costs and economic hardships on Nigerians.

Mr Nwokoma, the director of the Centre for Economic Policy, Advocacy and Research (CEPAR), made the call recently in Lagos.

He spoke on the heels of President Bola Tinubu’s New Year address to the nation and defended his actions so far.

Mr Nwokoma noted that the president’s address did not offer immediate solutions to ease the hardships caused by recent policies. He said the address focused on hopes and dreams for the future rather than presenting realistic solutions to present problems.

“The president’s New Year’s address to the nation was largely aspirational. First, on the policy steps taken, their consequential effects on the populace and what would be done going forward,” stated Mr Nwokoma. “Nigerians need some form of succour to navigate through the present challenging times.”

The expert advised the government to acknowledge the people’s suffering and address it with empathy and practical solutions by coming up with concrete steps and timelines for improvement.

He urged the government to demonstrate progress and take responsibility for any negative consequences of past policies.

Mr Nwokoma also said the government’s spending needed to be reduced to match the reduced public resources.

(NAN)