Tinubu Moves to Fast-Track State Police and Poverty Alleviation in Joint Ramadan-Lent Charge to Governors
President Bola Tinubu has made a definitive call to Nigeria’s 36 state governors to prioritize the needs of the grassroots, revealing that his administration is moving forward with the establishment of state police to tackle the nation’s lingering insecurity. Speaking during an interfaith breaking of the fast at the Presidential Villa on Monday, the President emphasized that the rare coincidence of Ramadan and Lent serves as a divine reminder of the nation’s common humanity and the need for compassionate leadership.
Addressing the gathered state executives, President Tinubu stressed that the current period of abstinence and penitence should serve as a catalyst for leaders to design programs that directly impact the livelihoods of the poor and underprivileged. He noted that while his administration is seeing signs of economic recovery, the progress must be felt by the “young man who feels forgotten” and the “woman who carries her family on tired shoulders.” He urged the governors to look beyond political, religious, or tribal lines when distributing the dividends of democracy.
The President used the occasion to reinforce his commitment to fundamental security reforms, stating that the promise to establish state police is not a matter of politics but of practicality. He argued that security is the essential foundation for prosperity, noting that without it, farms cannot flourish and businesses cannot grow. “What I promised Nigerians will not be postponed,” the President declared, urging governors to begin preparations for the shift in the security architecture to better protect their citizens.
During the event, the President specifically commended Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum, for his inclusive Ramadan outreach that catered to both Muslims and Christians, citing it as a model for national unity. He also acknowledged the presence of Kano State Governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf, and urged Ebonyi State Governor, Francis Nwifuru, to “temper justice with mercy” regarding recent local crises, further emphasizing a theme of reconciliation and restraint.
Representing the Nigeria Governors’ Forum, Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma noted the significance of the interfaith gathering, pointing out that the simultaneous occurrence of Ramadan and Lent is a phenomenon that last happened 33 years ago. Uzodimma praised the President for fostering a collaborative environment between the federal government and the states, regardless of party affiliations. He described the President’s leadership as a “forging of national partners in progress,” as both tiers of government work to navigate the country out of economic uncertainty.
