Tinubu Urges Governors to Drive Development, Food Security, Economic Growth

 

 

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has called on state governors to take the lead in fostering Nigeria’s development, emphasizing their pivotal role in ensuring food security, economic growth, and grassroots development.

Speaking during a New Year homage at his Ikoyi residence, Lagos, on Wednesday, President Tinubu hosted Vice President Kashim Shettima and members of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF).

He reiterated the importance of federal and state collaboration in addressing the nation’s challenges.

“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,” Tinubu stated.

Collaboration for Local Government Autonomy

Addressing the contentious issue of local government autonomy, Tinubu dispelled rumors of discord between the federal and state governments. He called for synergy in restoring hope at the grassroots level.

“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,” he said.

Refuting claims of disagreements, the President added: “There were gossips that we had disagreements on local government autonomy. No. 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.”

Focus on Agriculture and Currency Stability
Highlighting agriculture as a key to economic stability, President Tinubu urged governors to prioritize agricultural productivity to address food security challenges and improve Nigeria’s currency strength.

“We have to work harder, grow more, and ensure the situation of our currency improves. Nigeria will see prosperity, but it requires consistent effort from all of us,” he said.

Governors Commend Tinubu’s Leadership
Kwara State Governor and NGF Chairman, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, lauded the President’s transformative policies, particularly in agriculture.

“The policies are working. In agriculture, I was in Jigawa. The complaint in Jigawa was that there was a bumper harvest, but because of the strength of our currency, traders exported the harvest,” AbdulRazaq noted.

He added: “Most of us are encouraging ourselves to buy bumper stocks into our silos, store them for the rainy day. The policy is working, and we will continue to deepen it to achieve food security and feed the whole of West Africa.”

The governor also urged the President to visit various states to witness ongoing developmental projects.

Tinubu Reflects on Leadership, Outlines Next Steps

Reflecting on his leadership, President Tinubu expressed gratitude to Nigerians for entrusting him with the nation’s mandate.

“I am glad I asked for this job, and Nigerians gave me the mandate. We’ll be on this voyage together. I thank all of you for where we are today and where we are heading,” he said.

The President also announced plans to visit Enugu State on January 4 as part of a nationwide tour to assess state-level progress.

Tinubu, recently named Man of the Year by ThisDay newspaper, commended the publication for recognizing the administration’s achievements.

“We have better allocations now. Let me take the abuse; you take the privileges. Together, we will build a nation we are all proud of,” he added.

The NGF reaffirmed its commitment to supporting federal government initiatives, particularly in strengthening local security frameworks to promote national peace and stability.

==============