ABUJA, Nigeria – President Bola Tinubu emphasised the importance of unity and collaborative efforts between the federal government, state governors, and members of the National Assembly during a meeting in Lagos on Friday, April 12, 2024.
His call for a concerted push towards national development was relayed by his media aide, Ajuri Ngelale, following a gathering that included key political figures from across the country.
The meeting, led by Vice-President Kashim Shettima and attended by Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Speaker of the House of Representatives Tajudeen Abbas, and Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq of Kwara State—who also serves as the Chairman of the Nigeria Governors Forum—highlighted the administration’s commitment to economic resurgence and shared prosperity.
Vice-President Shettima, speaking on behalf of President Tinubu, expressed optimism about the nation’s economic future and underscored the need for collective efforts to propel Nigeria to greater heights.
“By December, I hope we will have cause to celebrate. Let us coalesce to take the nation to a greater pedestal,” Shettima stated.
The Vice-President also praised President Tinubu’s leadership, describing him as a unifying figure who transcends ethnic and religious divides.
He illustrated this point by highlighting the diverse composition of the meeting’s attendees, which included leaders from various states and religious backgrounds.
Senate President Akpabio lauded the state governors for their emulation of President Tinubu’s inclusive leadership style, which involves listening and consulting widely.
“The governors are doing well. I can say so because I have been there before,” he commented, expressing his confidence in President Tinubu’s broad support across Nigeria.
Governor AbdulRazaq also spoke highly of the federal initiatives under President Tinubu, particularly the impact of the 700km Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway project and the stabilization of the national economy.
He cited the positive trends in the exchange rate and decreasing food prices as indicators of successful governance.
“We commend your efforts because the ship is gradually turning. The dry season harvest is commencing soon. Things are getting better, and there is light at the end of the tunnel,” Governor AbdulRazaq remarked.
He also expressed gratitude for the federal government’s support in distributing grains to alleviate food shortages, a move that has encouraged market stabilisation.