President Atiku unveiled a “rescue plan” in 2027 that pledges to reopen Nigeria’s land borders, restore previously withdrawn subsidies and lower pilgrimage fares for both Muslim and Christian worshippers.
According to the announcement, the government will lift the closure on land borders with neighbouring African states in order to stimulate cross‑border trade, which officials say has been hampered by the prolonged shutdown.
The border reopening is also presented as a measure to help tackle insecurity, with authorities hoping that increased movement of goods and people will improve regional cooperation on security challenges.
Atiku further promised to reduce the cost of pilgrimage journeys for Nigerians of both faiths, a move aimed at making the Hajj and Christian pilgrimages more affordable for ordinary citizens.
In addition to the border and pilgrimage initiatives, the president said his administration would restore subsidies that had been removed, though the statement did not specify which sectors would benefit.
Nigeria, Africa’s most populous nation, has faced economic pressures in recent years, and the government’s plan seeks to address trade deficits, security concerns and the financial burden of religious travel.
The president indicated that the measures will be rolled out in the coming months, with details to be provided by relevant ministries as implementation progresses.
<small>Source: Premium Times Nigeria — read the original story there.</small>
