President Bola Tinubu, on Wednesday, emphasized the importance of collaboration between his administration and state governors, dismissing rumors of any rift over the issue of local government autonomy. Speaking during a visit by the Nigeria Governors Forum (NGF) to his Ikoyi residence in Lagos, Tinubu reiterated that his government is not in conflict with state governors regarding this issue.
He clarified that no one is looking to diminish the role of local governments, but instead, he stressed the need for united efforts to drive grassroots development. “There were gossips that we had disagreements on local government autonomy. No… Nobody wants to take them away from you, but we need collaboration,” Tinubu remarked.
Among the governors who paid a New Year visit to Tinubu were Abba Yusuf of Kano, Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta, Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos, and others from various states. Tinubu’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, further detailed the discussions in a statement titled ‘President Tinubu to Governors: You are the most important link to Nigeria’s development and prosperity.’
In his speech, President Tinubu highlighted the importance of effective local governance in Nigeria’s advancement. He pointed out that a critical challenge to the country’s progress has been the weak state of local government administration, which remains essential for socio-political development. Tinubu reaffirmed his commitment to enhancing local government autonomy and improving grassroots governance.
Moreover, the President recognized the pivotal role of state governors in the nation’s overall development. He emphasized their leadership in areas such as food security, economic growth, and national stability, calling on them to join forces with the federal government for Nigeria’s collective prosperity.
“The Federal Government accounts for about 30 to 35 percent of the allocated revenue; the rest comes to you. You own the land, and the job is in your hands,” Tinubu explained. He urged the governors to focus on agricultural growth, which he views as a pathway to economic stability, and stressed the need for consistent efforts to improve the currency situation.
In addition to discussing development issues, President Tinubu acknowledged the governors’ progress in various states, noting that there is no state where significant progress is not visible. He further assured them that their support in ensuring national security and fostering local development is invaluable.
Reflecting on his leadership journey, Tinubu expressed confidence in Nigeria’s future, citing the resilience shown by the administration and the ongoing efforts to push the country forward. “I am glad I asked for this job, and Nigerians gave me the mandate. We’ll be on this voyage together,” he remarked.
Looking ahead, the President announced plans to visit Enugu State on January 4, as part of his ongoing tour of Nigerian states. He also welcomed the recognition from ThisDay newspaper, which named him their Man of the Year for his leadership and successful policies.
Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazak of Kwara, Chairman of the NGF, praised Tinubu’s administration for its achievements, particularly in agriculture, and urged the President to visit more states to see firsthand the transformative progress being made.
As the country looks ahead to the New Year, the call for unity and collective action remains central to President Tinubu’s vision for a prosperous Nigeria. The President’s message is clear: collaboration is key to overcoming challenges and ensuring the nation’s sustained growth and development.
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