Traditional rulers from Southern Nigeria have urged the Federal Government, to as a matter of urgency, address food insecurity and economic hardship in the country.

This is as the monarchs predicted a brighter future for Nigeria in 2025.

The royal fathers, who spoke on the heels of the recent stampedes during the sharing of food palliatives in parts of the country, said the sad incidents further highlighted the level of desperation in the country due to economic hardship.

Southern Nigeria Traditional Rulers Council in a statement signed by the Publicity Secretary and the monarch of Aro kingdom, His Eminence, Dr Eberechukwu Oji, expressed grief over the loss of lives during the recent stampedes in Abuja, Anambra and Oyo states.

The monarchs condoled with the families of the victims and urged Governments, event planners and security agencies to take precautionary measures to forestall similar occurrences in the future.

It read in part:?It is with profound sadness that we extend our deepest condolences to the families and loved ones of those who tragically lost their lives in the recent stampede events in Anambra, Abuja, and Oyo States. These heartbreaking incidents, which occurred during events organized with goodwill intentions, are painful reminders of the fragility of life and the need for collective vigilance to prevent such tragedies in the future.

?Our hearts go out to the innocent victims, whose lives were cut short in moments that should have been filled with hope and community spirit. We stand in solidarity with their families, friends, and all those affected by these tragic occurrences.

?These events also highlight the urgent need for sustained efforts to address the economic challenges facing our nation. The desperation and overcrowding seen at these gatherings are symptomatic of deeper systemic issues that require immediate attention.

?We urge the Nigerian government to continue working tirelessly to improve the economic situation, create more opportunities, and alleviate the pressures that drive citizens to such perilous circumstances.

?Additionally, we call on event organizers across the nation to prioritize safety by involving local and national security agencies in the planning and execution of their programs. Adequate crowd control measures, risk assessments, and emergency response plans must be integral to any public event to ensure the safety and well-being of all participants.?

? May we honor the memories of those who lost their lives by working together to prevent such incidents in the future?, the statement added.

The monarchs, in a separate statement, predicted brighter future for Nigeria in 2025.

They noted the enormity of the challenges of 2024 but urged Nigerians to apply the lessons of the past year to build a stronger nation.

?As we stand at the threshold of a new year, we extend our cautious but heartfelt optimism for a brighter and more prosperous 2025 for Nigeria. While the challenges of the past year have been profound, they have also underscored the resilience, unity, and indomitable spirit of our people.

?Let us carry forward the lessons learned and the hope that together, we can create a safer, more secure, and economically stable nation.

?May 2025 bring renewed opportunities for growth, healing, and progress, as we work collectively to address the systemic issues that have held us back and strive to uplift every Nigerian.?

The monarchs further called for unity among Nigerians irrespective of their differences.

?As we welcome this New Year, let us recommit ourselves to fostering unity, prioritizing safety, and building a future where tragedies like those we have recently mourned become a thing of the past. With determination and collaboration, we can transform our aspirations into tangible realities.? (Vanguard)

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