Governors express solidarity with Nigerians, optimistic about Tinubu’s economic reforms

In a media briefing on Thursday morning, the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) conveyed deep empathy for the economic struggles facing Nigerians while expressing hope that President Bola Tinubu’s reforms would soon bring relief.

Imo State Governor and Chairman of the Progressives Governors’ Forum, Senator Hope Uzodinma, presented the governors’ views after their meeting in Abuja. He acknowledged that the removal of the fuel subsidy had exacerbated economic hardships, as rising petroleum prices were pushing up the costs of goods and services, making it increasingly difficult for many to afford essentials.

The governors, led by Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, voiced their optimism that recent discussions with Acting Director General of the Department of State Security, Adeola Ajayi, and the National Security Adviser’s office would bolster security collaboration among states.

In his remarks, Uzodinma stated, “We also met with the Group Chief Executive Officer of NNPC Limited, Mele Kyari, who briefed us on the complete subsidy removal, the challenges the corporation faces, and his plans to alleviate the suffering caused by rising pump prices. We hope that relief is on the horizon. We sympathise with our people and acknowledge the hardship across the country. We appreciate the President’s ongoing reforms, and our hope is that the awaited relief arrives soon so we can fully realise the benefits of these reforms and work towards a better Nigeria.”

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Uzodinma assured that NNPC and other stakeholders are working diligently to alleviate fuel shortages, urging relevant agencies to repair the Port Harcourt, Kaduna, and other refineries to enhance local production and reduce petrol prices.

He added, “The Forum received an update from the Group CEO of NNPC Limited on key developments in the corporation’s operations, including the National Crude and Condensate Production profile, the Production War Room initiative, and security efforts to combat illegal connections and vandalism. Governors acknowledged the importance of these measures in securing Nigeria’s energy resources and improving the efficiency of NNPC’s production and supply chain.”

The governors also learned about the African Medical Centre of Excellence (AMCE), a proposed 500-bed facility designed to provide high-quality care in oncology, cardiovascular, and haematological services, among others. Recognizing the potential of the AMCE to enhance Nigeria’s healthcare system, the governors reiterated their commitment to supporting the establishment of such specialized facilities to improve health outcomes nationwide.

Uzodinma further expressed confidence that strategic planning would help make the cost of living and business operations more manageable. He emphasized that all 36 state governors were dedicated to supporting President Tinubu’s administration in safeguarding the interests of all Nigerians.

He continued, “The Forum received a presentation from the new Director General of the Department of State Security on the current security challenges in Nigeria and the ongoing initiatives to address them. The Director General highlighted recent inter-agency collaborations, enhanced monitoring, and stronger enforcement aimed at curbing illegal activities, and sought the governors’ support for these measures. The governors reaffirmed their support for collaborative efforts to protect the nation.”

The Forum also received insights from the Pioneer Director of State Liaison in the Office of the National Security Adviser, who discussed ways to strengthen state collaboration and communication. The Director outlined strategies to enhance state-level security efforts and promote a unified approach to addressing national security challenges, which the governors acknowledged as essential and committed to actively engage in these initiatives.

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