President Bola Tinubu has urged for unity and increased collaboration among the federal and state governments as well as members of the National Assembly to accomplish national development objectives.
The President issued this appeal during a meeting with state governors and the leadership of the National Assembly in Lagos on Friday.
The delegation, led by Vice President Kashim Shettima, included Senate President Godswill Akpabio, House of Representatives Speaker Tajudeen Abbas, as well as Gov. AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq of Kwara State and Chairman of the Nigeria Governors Forum, among others.
Speaking on behalf of the President, Shettima expressed optimism regarding Nigeria’s economic resurgence and urged collective efforts to propel the nation forward.
He urged unity and collaboration among all stakeholders to achieve shared prosperity and promised a brighter future for the nation.
“Let us unite, rally around our leader, and propel this nation to greater heights. By December, I hope we will have cause to celebrate. Let us come together to elevate the nation,” Shettima said.
The Vice President noted Tinubu’s role as a unifying leader who transcends ethnic and religious divisions. He pointed out that the gathering of 27 governors in Lagos, along with the leadership of the National Assembly and some former governors, exemplifies the presence of a leader who does not adhere to tribal affiliations.
“This gathering encompasses diverse ethnic, religious, and political backgrounds. Here, we have Pastor Eno from Akwa Ibom and Father Hyacinth from Benue, and as the President was seated, he was inquiring, ‘Where is Wammako, where is Yari?’
“This exemplifies true leadership. What unites us surpasses any divisions that may exist.
“The fate of the black man hinges on Nigeria, whether for good or ill. Our economy has begun to turn around. In the upcoming months, the economy will witness a resurgence,” the vice president said.
Akpabio praised the state governors for adopting Tinubu’s leadership approach, characterized by attentiveness to various perspectives and extensive consultation with the public, regardless of political allegiances.
“The governors are doing well. I can say so because I have been there before,” Akpabio said.
Expressing confidence in the president’s leadership, Akpabio highlighted that Tinubu garners widespread support from Nigerians across political lines.
“As you lead the charge for a second term victory, may all the governors seated here also secure second term victories in their respective states,” the Senate President remarked.
In his statement, AbdulRazaq voiced backing for the 700km Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway, deeming it a substantial project that will greatly benefit the nation upon completion.
He praised the President’s endeavors in stabilizing the economy and enhancing living conditions, underscoring the positive developments in the country, such as the stabilization of the exchange rate and declining food prices.
These improvements were attributed to the President’s initiatives, and he also commended the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare for allocating funds to 8,800 primary healthcare centers.
“We applaud your efforts because progress is evident. We have observed a decrease in the exchange rate of the naira against the dollar. Food costs are decreasing, and the dry-season harvest is soon to begin. Things are improving, and there is optimism for the future,” the governor remarked.
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Additionally, the governor expressed appreciation for the Federal Government’s assistance to states, particularly in the distribution of grains to alleviate food shortages.
“We are here to support you, and we also appreciate the support you are providing to the sub-national entities. Trucks are distributing grains across the nation, and I have received them, as have most of the states.
“Due to your actions, those who were hoarding food items are now releasing them, leading to a decrease in food prices,” he stated.
AbdulRazaq reiterated the governors’ dedication to supporting the President’s initiatives and pledged to continue collaborating with the federal government to advance progress and prosperity across the nation.
Vanguard