“You Are Nigeria’s Key to Prosperity”, Tinubu Tells Governors
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has underscored the pivotal role of state governors in advancing Nigeria’s growth and prosperity, stating that they hold the keys to unlocking the nation’s economic and social potential.
Speaking on New Year’s Day during a courtesy visit by Vice President Kashim Shettima and members of the Nigeria Governors Forum (NGF) to his Ikoyi residence in Lagos, Tinubu emphasized, “You are the most important link to Nigeria’s prosperity and development.”
The President highlighted the significant share of national revenue under the control of state governments.
“The Federal Government accounts for just 30 to 35 percent of allocated revenue; the rest comes to you,” he explained. “The agricultural value chain depends on you. You own the land, and the job is in your hands.”
Tinubu called for stronger collaboration between federal and state governments, particularly in addressing critical issues such as local government autonomy, food security, and economic stability. He reaffirmed his commitment to grassroots development, dispelling speculation of discord over local government autonomy.
“There were gossips that we had disagreements on local government autonomy. No,” Tinubu clarified.
“Nobody wants to take them away from you, but we need collaboration. You control your local governments, and you can restore hope by fulfilling what the people expect at the grassroots level.”
Focusing on agriculture as a cornerstone of economic stability, the President urged governors to intensify efforts in boosting productivity.
“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 stated.
Tinubu also praised the governors for their strides in state development, acknowledging, “There is no state we cannot visit and be proud of its development. Let me take the abuse; you take the privileges. Together, we will build a nation we are all proud of.”
In his remarks, Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq, Chairman of the NGF and Governor of Kwara State, praised the administration’s policies, particularly in agriculture.
“The policies are working. In Jigawa, for instance, the challenge is no longer poor harvests but traders exporting the bumper harvests due to the strength of our currency,” he said.
The governor highlighted the benefits of economic restructuring, noting improved funding for state projects.
“I have not done two years in this administration, but I’ve achieved more in two years than during my first four-year term,” Abdulrazaq revealed.
Tinubu reflected on his leadership journey, expressing optimism for Nigeria’s future.
“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 remarked.
