President Bola Tinubu has urged collaboration between state and local governments to accelerate infrastructure development across the nation. The call was made during a Christmas visit by members of the Nigeria Governors Forum (NGF) to his residence in Lagos on Tuesday.
Tinubu emphasized the need to discard distinctions between federal, state, or rural roads and view development as a collective responsibility. Additionally, he tasked the governors with ensuring peace and stability in their respective regions for the overall growth of the nation. The president condemned the recent killings in Plateau State and directed security agencies to halt the violence, urging a thorough pursuit of those responsible in Bokkos and Barkin-Ladi Local Government Areas.
Expressing condolences to the victims, Tinubu underscored the sanctity of human life and urged a change in mindset among those with differing beliefs, cautioning them about the repercussions of their actions. He stressed the vital importance of peace and stability for Nigeria’s progress, stating that the nation belongs to all and requires collective care.
President Tinubu acknowledged the presence of Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State, commending him for his efforts in resolving political challenges peacefully. He also urged the governors to prioritize the swift return of the school feeding program.
Government officials present during the meeting included Vice President Kashim Shettima and Chief of Staff Femi Gbajabiamila. Members of the NGF who visited Tinubu included governors from various states such as Hope Uzodinma of Imo, Yahaya Bello of Kogi, Godwin Obaseki of Edo, Abba Yusuf of Kano, Hyacinth Alia of Benue, Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau, Umar Dikko Radda of Katsina, Lucky Aiyedatiwa (Acting governor of Ondo), Ahmed Usman Ododo (Governor-elect of Kogi), Dapo Abiodun of Ogun, Ahmad Aliyu of Sokoto, Uba Sani of Kaduna, Bala Mohammed of Bauchi, Francis Nwifiuru of Ebonyi, and Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers.
In response, Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq, chairman of the NGF and Kwara State Governor, expressed solidarity with the government and people of Plateau State, offering condolences and support. He acknowledged the challenges faced by states due to the removal of fuel subsidies and expressed confidence in overcoming these challenges under President Tinubu’s administration.