President Bola Tinubu on Monday called on state governors to prioritise the welfare of the poor and underprivileged, urging policies that directly impact grassroots communities across the country.
The President made the appeal while hosting governors for an interfaith breaking of fast at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, noting that the coincidence of Ramadan and Lent highlights shared values of sacrifice, discipline and compassion among Muslims and Christians.
He said the dual observance offers leaders an opportunity to reflect on the plight of the less privileged and design programmes that improve livelihoods, particularly for young people.
“To reach the young man who feels forgotten, to lift the woman who carries her family on tired shoulders, development must not recognise religion, tribe or status,” Tinubu said. “We must spread development opportunities across the grassroots and local governments.”
The President expressed optimism about the country’s economic outlook, declaring that Nigeria was “out of the woods” and emerging from a period of uncertainty. However, he stressed that more work remained, particularly in reducing poverty and unemployment.
Tinubu also reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to establishing state police as part of broader efforts to combat insecurity nationwide. He described security as the foundation of prosperity, saying farms, businesses and families cannot thrive without safety.
“We will establish state police to curb insecurity. This is not about politics; it is about practicality,” he said, adding that reforms were necessary to strengthen national and subnational security structures.
The President commended several governors for their efforts, including Babagana Zulum of Borno State for supporting both Muslim and Christian communities during the fasting period. He also acknowledged the presence of Abba Kabir Yusuf and urged leaders to temper justice with mercy in handling state matters.
Speaking on behalf of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum, Hope Uzodimma described the simultaneous fasting period as divinely ordained and called for unity beyond religious and ethnic differences. He commended Tinubu for fostering collaboration between the federal and state governments and for pursuing reforms aimed at improving governance.
Uzodimma noted that the interfaith gathering underscored the need for leaders to support the less privileged and strengthen national cohesion.
The event brought together governors from across the federation in a symbolic display of unity, as the President reiterated his pledge to deliver on campaign promises and drive reforms aimed at securing and developing the country.