President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has dismissed rumors of a conflict with state governors over his push for local government autonomy, emphasizing the importance of collaboration for Nigeria’s development.
This clarification comes months after the Supreme Court’s July 2024 ruling granting financial independence to the 774 local government areas in the country.
Despite many governors conducting local government elections, there have been concerns about their commitment to fully implementing the autonomy initiative.
Addressing governors who visited him for a New Year homage, led by Vice President Kashim Shettima and members of the Nigeria Governors Forum (NGF), Tinubu highlighted the pivotal role state governors play in ensuring national progress.
“You are the cornerstone of Nigeria’s prosperity. The federal government only accounts for 30-35% of allocated revenue, while the rest is under your control.
“The agricultural value chain and land resources lie in your hands. Your leadership is crucial to driving economic growth and food security,” Tinubu said.
Commitment to Grassroots Development
Reaffirming his dedication to grassroots development, Tinubu denied any disagreement over local government autonomy.
He called for unity and urged governors to focus on effective governance at the local level.
“There are no disputes about local government autonomy. You control your local governments, and together, we can drive change.
“Collaboration is key to building a better Nigeria,” Tinubu stressed.
He urged governors to prioritize agriculture as a pathway to economic stability and currency improvement, noting that agricultural policies are already yielding results.
“We need to grow more, work harder, and stabilize our currency.
“Prosperity is achievable, but it demands consistent effort from all of us,” he added.
Progress and National Pride
Tinubu commended the governors for their achievements and encouraged them to take pride in the progress being made across states.
“There is no state without commendable development. Let me bear the criticisms; you enjoy the privileges.
“Together, we’ll build a nation we can all be proud of,” he remarked.
Reflecting on his presidency over the past 19 months, Tinubu expressed optimism about Nigeria’s resilience and the administration’s leadership.
“I am grateful for the mandate Nigerians gave me. This is a shared journey, and I appreciate where we are today and where we are headed,” Tinubu said.
He announced plans to visit Enugu State on January 4 as part of his nationwide engagements.
Governors’ Support and Achievements
Kwara State Governor and NGF Chairman Abdulrahman Abdulrazak affirmed the governors’ support for Tinubu’s administration, particularly in bolstering local security and advancing food security initiatives.
“The policies are working. For example, Jigawa State had a bumper harvest, and traders exported much of it due to the currency’s strength.
“To address this, we’re encouraging states to stockpile reserves for future needs,” Abdulrazak explained.
He noted that economic restructuring has increased state revenues, enabling significant projects despite inflation.
“I’ve accomplished more in the last two years than in my entire first term. With increased funding, we are overriding inflation and driving development,” Abdulrazak added, urging Tinubu to visit states to witness ongoing transformations firsthand.
The governors reiterated their commitment to partnering with the federal government to enhance security, strengthen the economy, and achieve sustainable development nationwide.
