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A concerned Nigerian, Mr. Shadrach Emaeyak Wills, has issued an open letter calling on the Federal Government and the Benue State Government to take immediate and decisive action against the triple challenges of unemployment, inflation, and insecurity, which he says are deepening hardship and breeding widespread disillusionment, especially among the youth.
In the letter dated January 24, 2026, Wills described the current economic reality as increasingly difficult for ordinary citizens, noting that hopes raised during the 2023 general elections have not been adequately met. He pointed out that unemployment rates remain alarmingly high, while runaway inflation has driven up the cost of goods and services far beyond what most households—particularly those reliant on agricultural produce—can afford, steadily eroding purchasing power.
While acknowledging the efforts of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Benue State Governor Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia, and other national and state leaders, Wills stressed that bolder, more inclusive, and people-focused policies are urgently required to alleviate the suffering of citizens.
He specifically urged the revival of social intervention programmes such as the N-Power scheme, prompt and consistent payment of stipends under the Youth Empowerment and Innovation Development Programme (YEIDEP), and the settlement of all outstanding pension and gratuity arrears at both federal and state levels. Wills also advocated for the creation of more employment opportunities, active support for the private sector to implement the new national minimum wage, intensified security measures to restore peace, and deliberate steps to bring down petrol prices while regulating the cost of essential commodities.
Mr. Wills commended ongoing infrastructure projects and employment initiatives in Benue State, including recruitment drives at the State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), the Benue State University Teaching Hospital (BSUTH), broader industrialisation efforts, and access to funding through the Nigerian Education Loan Fund. However, he maintained that these steps, while positive, are insufficient on their own and must be scaled up and complemented by broader macroeconomic interventions.
He expressed deep concern over the high level of frustration among young Nigerians, warning that continued inaction risks further eroding public confidence and social stability. Wills concluded by appealing to leaders at all levels to act swiftly to restore hope, improve living standards, and demonstrate tangible commitment to the welfare of the average citizen.
