President Bola Tinubu has urged for unified efforts and increased collaboration among the federal government, state governors, and members of the National Assembly to accomplish national development objectives. This call was made during a meeting with state governors and National Assembly leadership in Lagos on Friday, as reported by his media aide, Ajuri Ngelale.
Vice-President Kashim Shettima led the delegation, which included Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Speaker of the House of Representatives Tajudeen Abbas, Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq of Kwara State, and Chairman of the Nigeria Governors Forum, among others.
In his address on behalf of President Tinubu, Vice-President Shettima expressed confidence in Nigeria’s economic recovery and emphasized the importance of collective action to drive the nation’s progress. He underscored the need for unity and collaboration among all stakeholders to achieve mutual prosperity, assuring a brighter future for the nation under President Tinubu’s leadership.
“Let us unite, rally around our leader, and elevate this nation to greater heights. By December, I am hopeful that we will have reason to celebrate. Let us come together to propel the nation forward,” Vice-President Shettima urged.
Highlighting President Tinubu’s role as a unifying figure transcending ethnic and religious boundaries, the Vice-President noted that the gathering of 27 governors in Lagos, alongside the leadership of the National Assembly and some former governors, exemplifies the leadership of a leader who embraces all.
“This gathering transcends ethnic, religious, and political divides. Here, we have Pastor Eno from Akwa Ibom and Father Hyacinth from Benue, and as the President was seated, he was asking, ‘Where is Wammako, where is Yari’? That is the essence of true leadership. What unites us surpasses whatever may divide us.”
“The destiny of the black man hinges on Nigeria to either make or break. Our economy has taken a positive turn. In the coming months, the economy will rebound gloriously,” the Vice-President declared.
Senate President Akpabio commended the state governors for emulating President Tinubu’s leadership style, characterized by listening to diverse voices and consulting widely with the people, regardless of political affiliations.
“The governors are performing commendably. I can attest to this because I have been in their shoes,” Senator Akpabio remarked.
Expressing confidence in President Tinubu’s leadership, Akpabio noted that the President enjoys broad support from Nigerians across political divides.
“As you journey towards victory for a second term, may all the governors present here also achieve victory for a second term in their respective states,” Senate President Akpabio prayed.
In his address, Governor AbdulRazaq expressed support for the 700km Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway, describing it as a monumental project that will significantly impact the nation upon completion.
He commended the President’s efforts in stabilizing the economy and improving living standards, citing positive developments such as exchange rate stabilization and decreasing food prices.
He attributed these improvements to the President’s initiatives and also applauded the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare for funding 8,800 primary healthcare centres.
“We applaud your efforts because the tide is gradually turning. We have witnessed the decline in the exchange rate of the naira against the dollar. Food prices are decreasing, and the dry season harvest is about to commence. Progress is evident, and there is optimism for the future,” the Governor remarked.
He encouraged President Tinubu to persevere in his pursuit of economic stability.
The governor also expressed appreciation for the assistance provided by the Federal Government to states, particularly in the distribution of grains to alleviate food shortages.
“We stand ready to support you, and we are grateful for the assistance you are providing to the states. Trucks are traversing the nation, distributing grains. I have received them, and so have most of the states. Thanks to your efforts, those who were hoarding food items are releasing them, leading to a decline in food prices,” he explained.
Governor AbdulRazaq reaffirmed the governors’ dedication to supporting the President’s initiatives and pledged to continue complementing the federal government’s endeavors to drive progress and prosperity nationwide.
