Government Aims to Enhance Efficiency and Cut Costs, Not reduce Workforce – Minister

In a press briefing held in Abuja on Wednesday, Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, assured the public that the Federal Government, through the implementation of the long-awaited Oronsaye Report, is focused on streamlining government agencies and parastatals, not on workforce reduction.

Idris emphasized that President Tinubu’s commitment to responsible governance is evident in the decision to conduct a comprehensive review of government commissions, agencies, and parastatals after 11 years of the report being on the shelf.

“The government’s objective is to reduce costs and enhance service delivery efficiency, without resorting to job cuts or pushing individuals into the labor market,” stated Idris during the briefing.

Elaborating on the rationale behind the Oronsaye Report implementation, the Minister highlighted President Tinubu’s goal of achieving substantial cost savings by eliminating duplicated functions, streamlining administrative processes, and optimizing resource allocation.

Pointing to the positive impact of the reforms, Idris cited recent National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) data indicating a 3.46% GDP growth in the fourth quarter of 2023, compared to the 2.54% recorded in the third quarter. Additionally, he mentioned a notable rise in capital importation by 66% during the same period, reversing a 36% decline.

The Minister underscored that since the removal of the fuel subsidy, gasoline importation has decreased by 50%, and the Nigerian Stock Exchange All Share Index has reached unprecedented levels.

Furthermore, Idris revealed that President Tinubu has issued directives for the development of a Social Security Unemployment Programme to support unemployed graduates and the establishment of a Social Consumer Credit Scheme to boost the purchasing power of Nigerians during temporary economic hardships.

In concluding the briefing, the Minister announced the President’s approval for the resumption of direct payments of N25,000 to 15 million households after the review of the National Social Investment Programme.