PRESS RELEASE

Date: March 23, 2026

BAT-IG Urges Governors to Roll Out Grassroots Relief Amid Rising Economic Hardship

The Bola Ahmed Tinubu Ideological Group (BAT-IG) has called on state governors across Nigeria to urgently implement targeted grassroots interventions aimed at alleviating the growing economic pressure on citizens.

In a statement issued on Monday, the group emphasized that with the removal of fuel subsidies and the resulting increase in state revenues, it is imperative for governors to prioritise policies and programs that directly improve the welfare of the people. BAT-IG stressed that these funds must be transparently deployed toward initiatives that provide immediate relief, particularly for vulnerable populations.

The group noted that rising global economic tensions, especially ongoing conflicts in the Middle East, are contributing to increased oil and gas prices, which in turn are driving up the cost of living in Nigeria. With fuel prices reportedly reaching between ₦1,400 and ₦1,500 per liter in some areas, BAT-IG warned that the purchasing power of the average Nigerian is rapidly declining.

To address these challenges, the group proposed strategic interventions in key sectors such as healthcare, education, and transportation. These include subsidising primary healthcare services, improving secondary school infrastructure, and introducing affordable transport systems, particularly through the adoption of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) buses and reduced transit fares.

BAT-IG also highlighted the importance of rural infrastructure development, especially road networks connecting farmlands to markets, as a means of enhancing food security and improving national safety by enabling better access for security agencies.

In addition, the group encouraged the adoption of flexible work arrangements, including remote work options for non-essential workers, to reduce transportation costs and ease financial strain on households.

The statement further advocated for stronger collaboration across federal, state, and local governments through a unified policy framework under the “One Nation, One Goal” initiative.

This approach, according to the group, would ensure coordinated efforts in addressing economic challenges while promoting accountability and improved service delivery.

BAT-IG reiterated that the primary goal of these recommendations is to “let the poor breathe” by creating sustainable, people-centered policies that cushion the effects of economic hardship.

The group urged governors to act swiftly and decisively, noting that leadership at the state level remains critical in mitigating the impact of current economic realities on citizens.

Signed:

Rotimi Oke

Secretary

Bola Ahmed Tinubu Ideological Group (BAT-IG).