NIGERIA: Tinubu Urges Governors To Prioritize Food Security, Prosperity

By Ameenat Hamzat, Lagos, Nigeria

Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has called on Nigerian governors to take decisive steps in ensuring food security and fostering prosperity at the grassroots level.

Speaking during a New Year courtesy visit by Vice President Kashim Shettima and members of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) at his Ikoyi residence in Lagos, Tinubu emphasised the governors’ critical role in the country’s development.

The president, in a statement by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu further acknowledged their efforts and expressed gratitude for their cooperation while highlighting key areas that require joint effort.

The president said: “You are the most important link to Nigeria’s prosperity and development. The Federal Government accounts for about 30 to 35 percent of the allocated revenue; the rest comes to you. The agricultural value chain depends on you. You own the land, and the job is in your hands. ”

According to the statement, President Tinubu also stressed the importance of unity and shared responsibility in driving grassroots development.

He assured the governors there was no intention to undermine their control over local governments and urged them to focus on delivering transformative governance at the grassroots, emphasizing that effective local governance is crucial to restoring the hope of Nigerians.

Debunking rumors of friction over local government autonomy, President Tinubu reaffirmed his commitment to promoting a partnership that prioritizes the welfare of the people and strengthens democratic institutions.

“We will not fight within us. I will drive the change. You control your local governments. You can restore hope by effectively fulfilling what the people expect at the grassroots level. There were gossips that we had disagreements on local government autonomy. No. Just drive development at the local government. Nobody wants to take them away from you, but we need collaboration. Let’s do it together and ensure Nigeria is better off for it.” He noted.

The NGF chairman who doubles as the Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazak urged the President to visit states and see ongoing development firsthand.

He assured the President of the steadfast support of the governors, particularly in contributing to the local security structure to further enhance the nation’s security.

“I must confess that I have not done two years in this administration, but I’ve done more projects in two years than in the four years of my first term. We are getting more funding due to the restructuring of the economy. Yes, there is inflation, but we are overriding it.” AbdulRazaq said.

Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, also emphasised the governor’s stance to support the President’s leadership and vision. He said that they appreciate President Tinubu’s strong leadership and determination to transform the country.

Vice President Kashim Shettima, during the visit, reassured Nigerians that the positive impact of the Tinubu Administration’s policies will begin to manifest soon.

He expressed confidence that 2025 will feature significant economic activity and improvement in the lives of citizens.

“The economy has started picking up, and in the coming weeks and months, Nigerians will start smiling for the better. We are working assiduously with the National Assembly to come up with robust solutions to our national challenges.

“No nation is immune to the economic headwinds across the world. The crisis in Ukraine and so many other global trends are affecting us adversely because we are part of the global community.

“But I want to assure Nigerians that the economy is turning the corner, by the grace of God, we have crossed the Rubicon and we are on a path to sustained growth.

“We wish Nigerians well.” He stated