By By Elizabeth Ugbo
President Bola Tinubu on Monday in Abuja hosted state governors at the Presidential Villa for an interfaith Iftar. He urged Muslim and Christian leaders to pursue grassroots-focused policies that support the poor and underprivileged. The event brought together members of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum during the simultaneous observance of Ramadan and Lent. Tinubu emphasised unity, security reforms, and youth empowerment as priorities for national development.
Tinubu Calls for Compassionate Leadership
At the gathering in Abuja, Bola Tinubu stressed that leaders must show greater compassion to vulnerable Nigerians.
He said Ramadan and Lent highlight shared values of discipline, sacrifice, and faith. According to him, both seasons offer leaders a chance to reflect and design impactful programmes.
“To reach the young man who feels forgotten, to lift the woman who carries her family on tired shoulders, development must not recognise religion,” the President said.
He added that opportunity must not recognise tribe or social status.
Furthermore, Tinubu promised that reforms aimed at improving security and economic growth would continue without delay.
State Police and Security Reforms
The President declared that security remains the foundation of prosperity.
“Without security, farms cannot flourish, businesses cannot grow, and families cannot sleep in peace,” he noted.
He therefore reaffirmed his commitment to establishing state police. According to him, the reform will empower states to protect their citizens while strengthening national security structures.
“This is not about politics. It is about practicality,” he said.
Tinubu insisted that his promises to Nigerians would not be postponed. He added that the economy is improving and that the country is emerging from uncertainty.
Uzodimma Commends Tinubu’s Leadership
Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodimma, who represented the Nigeria Governors’ Forum, praised the President’s efforts at fostering unity.
Uzodimma described the coincidence of Ramadan and Lent as divinely inspired. He said the last occurrence happened 33 years ago.
According to him, the convergence reminds Nigerians not to allow religious or ethnic differences to shape political actions.
He also commended Babagana Zulum for extending Ramadan outreach to both Muslims and Christians in Borno State.
“The reward of hard work is more work,” Uzodimma said, while urging leaders to expand development initiatives to grassroots communities.
Tinubu Welcomes Governors, Urges Unity
President Tinubu welcomed Abba Kabir Yusuf of Kano State to the State House.
He also addressed the Ebonyi State governor, urging him to temper justice with mercy amid reported tensions.
The President encouraged governors to tolerate diverse views and build inclusive governance structures.
“Tolerate everybody and build structure in this period of faith, unity, harmony and sacrifice,” he advised.
Focus on Youth and Poverty Reduction
Tinubu emphasised youth empowerment and poverty reduction as urgent priorities.
He urged governors to create programmes that directly impact grassroots communities.
Moreover, he said leaders must remain determined to rescue the country through collaboration.
“As long as we work together in delivering hope to our citizens, the best is yet to come for Nigeria,” the President stated.
