Ahead of the August 1 hunger protests in Nigeria, the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) has initiated consultations and instructed its 104 affiliated youth organisations to remain on standby.

In a communiqué released on Thursday following an emergency meeting of the National Executive, 36 state chairmen, and other stakeholders held via Zoom, the NYCN expressed deep concern over the severe socio-economic challenges and widespread hardship faced by citizens, especially the youth.

The communiqué, signed by NYCN President, Sukubo Sara-Igbe, announced that the organisation will hold a world press conference on Wednesday, July 31, 2024, to address the nation on current issues and its stance on the upcoming protest.

The communiqué read: “NYCN leaders acknowledged that the current socio-economic challenges facing Nigeria, including rising inflation, insecurity, unemployment, and the general hardship experienced by citizens, particularly the youth, have reached alarming levels.

“After extensive deliberations, the following resolutions were adopted: The NYCN commits to, in the next four days, consult widely with various stakeholders, including government officials, security agencies, civil society organisations, and the media, to ensure a comprehensive understanding of the issues.

“A world press conference will be held on Wednesday, July 31, 2024, where the NYCN leadership will address the nation on the current state of affairs and state its position on the planned protest.

“NYCN leaders advise their millions of members, 774 local government branches, wards, state and zonal chapters, NYCN in diaspora, Man O’ War, Boy Scouts, Royal Rangers, Islamic Youth League, and 100 other affiliated youth organisations to be on standby and await further direction.

“The press conference will serve as an opportunity to present the collective position of Nigerian youths and to outline our next line of action.

“The National Youth Council of Nigeria reaffirms its commitment to representing the interests of Nigerian youths and to advocating for positive change in the nation.

“We recognise the challenges faced by our country and the need for urgent action to address these issues. As we prepare to address the nation, we call on all stakeholders to support our efforts and to work together towards a better Nigeria.” (The Guardian)