President Tinubu Urges APC Governors to Prioritize National Unity and Development
In a high-profile meeting at the State House, President Bola Tinubu has called upon governors from the All Progressives Congress (APC) to craft and execute policies that prioritize the well-being of all Nigerians and to place the national interest above political affiliations. The President emphasized that inclusive, owned, and sustainable development policies are crucial for making a meaningful impact on people’s lives.
Healing divisiveness for national progress
President Tinubu, addressing members of the Progressive Governors Forum (PGF) in Abuja, expressed concern about the divisive challenges facing the nation. He stressed the importance of the governing party in working towards healing and unifying the country. The President urged the governors to foster a collective national vision and channel energy and resources into nation-building.
“You can convert people. You can appeal to people to come to your side,” President Tinubu asserted, underlining the need for a cohesive effort to bridge gaps and foster unity.
Abundant resources, striving for excellence
Highlighting Nigeria’s wealth in human, natural, and material resources, President Tinubu insisted that the nation should not be grappling with a lack of quality infrastructure, education, and health facilities. He asserted the need to re-engineer the entire financial system for inclusivity, effectiveness, and efficiency.
Reflecting on the country’s potential, the President stated, “We have no reason to be poor. We are not a cursed country, but blessed.”
Revamping education and empowering youth
President Tinubu called on the governors to devise a framework for the comprehensive and successful implementation of the school-feeding program across all states. He emphasized the importance of involving all governors, including those from opposition parties, to ensure the success of the initiative.
“We should not measure the children as statistics. We should measure their return to classrooms as our achievement. We should see economic growth in terms of value and empowerment,” the President remarked. He expressed readiness to invest in the school feeding program and encouraged the governors to take it seriously.
A focus on agriculture and security
Addressing the governors, President Tinubu underscored the connection between the school-feeding program and increased investments in agriculture, particularly in livestock farming and dairy. He acknowledged the efforts of APC Chairman Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje in developing a proposal for input and implementation.
Discussing security concerns, the President revealed that the deployment of forest guards with modern technological gadgets and weapons was being considered to strengthen security. He also mentioned plans to establish special police units for the protection of the solid mineral and marine economic sectors.
“We have a big marine economy, and I do not see why we should not have the marine police. We will have the same in solid minerals to keep the scavengers away. I am ready to invest in security,” President Tinubu affirmed.
Acknowledging support and collaboration
Governor Hope Uzodinma, Chairman of the Progressive Governors Forum, expressed gratitude to President Tinubu for involving governors in policy design and implementation. He commended the President for his financial support to the states and pledged continued support from the governors as “able, willing, and capable ambassadors.”
President Tinubu’s call for unity, inclusive development, and strategic policy implementation underscores the commitment of the APC to address the challenges facing Nigeria. As the nation grapples with various issues, including education, agriculture, and security, the President’s vision aims to create a cohesive and prosperous future for all Nigerians.
