Tinubu Urges Governors to Prioritise Poor, Empower Grassroots at Interfaith Iftar

P President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Monday urged governors across the country to prioritise the needs of the poor and underprivileged by implementing policies that directly impact citizens at the grassroots.

The President made the call while hosting state governors to an interfaith breaking of fast at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, noting that the simultaneous observance of Ramadan and Lent highlights a shared humanity and the values of discipline, sacrifice and compassion common to both Islam and Christianity.

“It is a joy and great honour to be with you again this year, to give thanks to the Almighty God for sparing our lives and keeping us together to see another Ramadan,” Tinubu said.

“A great Ramadan that coincides with that of the Christian faith, Lent. You know what it means: discipline, sacrifice, faith, resilience, and strong determination to continue to bridge together, pray together, and love one another.”

He commended religious leaders and governors for their service to humanity but stressed that more must be done, particularly in reducing poverty and empowering young people.

“Tolerate everybody and build structure in this period of faith, unity, harmony and sacrifice that you are experiencing. Let the young ones breathe too,” the President added.

Tinubu welcomed Kano State Governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf, to the State House and also appealed to the Governor of Ebonyi State to “temper justice with mercy” amid reports of political tensions in the state.

He further praised Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum, for extending Ramadan outreach programmes to both Muslims and Christians.

“I must refer to the generosity of Prof. Zulum. I saw the layout of the Ramadan outreach for both Christians and Muslims. That is a very good spirit,” he said.

The President reiterated his administration’s commitment to national development and security, assuring that his promises to Nigerians would be fulfilled.

“We are out of the woods. Out of the dark tunnel of uncertainty. The economy is showing up. Let’s help the unemployed. What I promise you will not be postponed,” he stated.

Tinubu also announced plans to establish state police as part of efforts to combat insecurity.

“Security is the foundation of prosperity. Without it, farms cannot flourish, businesses cannot grow, and families cannot sleep in peace.

“We will establish state police to curb insecurity. This is not about politics. It is about practicality. It is about empowering states with the tools to protect their people while strengthening our national framework,” he said.

He urged leaders to ensure that development and compassion transcend religious, ethnic and social divides.

“Development must not recognise religion. Compassion must not recognise tribe. Opportunity must not recognise status,” the President declared. “I am determined to rescue this country. And as long as we work together in delivering hope to our citizens, the best is yet to come for Nigeria.”

Speaking on behalf of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum, Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodimma, described the simultaneous fasting period as divinely inspired and a call for unity.

“It is not often that the Muslim Ramadan fast coincides with the Lent season. The last time was 33 years ago. This convergence is a special situation created by God to remind us Christians and Muslims not to allow religious and ethnic differences to guide our thoughts and political activities,” Uzodimma said.

He commended President Tinubu for fostering collaboration among governors and promoting national unity amid religious and ethnic tensions.

The interfaith gathering underscored renewed calls for inclusive governance, grassroots development and strengthened security architecture across the country.