President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Monday called on state governors to deepen pro-poor policies and expand empowerment initiatives targeting vulnerable Nigerians, particularly at the grassroots.
In a statement Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy Bayo Onanuga said the President made the appeal in Abuja while hosting governors to an interfaith Iftar at the Presidential Villa, against the backdrop of the coinciding observance of Ramadan and the Christian Lent.
He said the convergence of the two sacred periods of fasting and reflection underscores shared values of discipline, sacrifice, faith and compassion, urging political leaders to translate those ideals into policies that directly impact the lives of ordinary citizens.
According to him, both Ramadan and Lent offer an opportunity for leaders to reflect on the plight of the less privileged and design programmes that address poverty, youth unemployment and social exclusion.
President Tinubu emphasised the need for tolerance, unity and inclusive governance, encouraging governors to “let the young ones breathe” by creating opportunities for youth participation and economic advancement.
He welcomed Abba Kabir Yusuf of Kano State to the State House and made light remarks referencing recent developments in Ebonyi State. He also commended Babagana Zulum for extending Ramadan outreach initiatives to both Muslims and Christians in Borno State, describing the gesture as exemplary and unifying.
The President expressed optimism about the nation’s economic outlook, declaring that Nigeria was emerging from a period of uncertainty. He, however, stressed that progress must be consolidated by expanding development to local governments and underserved communities.
On security, Tinubu reiterated his administration’s commitment to establishing state police as part of broader reforms to combat insecurity nationwide. He described security as the bedrock of prosperity, noting that without it, agriculture, commerce and community life cannot thrive.
“We must be bold enough to reform what is not working and united enough to protect what we hold dear,” he said, adding that the move towards state policing was driven by practicality rather than politics.
Speaking on behalf of the Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF), Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodimma, described the simultaneous observance of Ramadan and Lent as divinely ordained and a reminder for national unity.
Uzodimma commended the President for fostering collaboration with governors across party lines and for strengthening national cohesion amid religious and ethnic differences. He noted that the period of fasting reinforces the obligation of leaders to support the less privileged and work collectively for Nigeria’s stability and development.
The interfaith gathering was attended by governors from across the federation.
