Peter Obi, the former Labour Party presidential candidate, has emphasized that Northern Nigeria holds the key to resolving the nation’s challenges. Speaking at a National Political Consultative Group meeting in Abuja, which included notable figures like former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Obi highlighted the North’s potential as Nigeria’s greatest asset. He attributed the region’s issues of crime and insecurity to pervasive poverty, advocating for substantial investments in education and agriculture to address these problems. Obi criticized the historical voting patterns in the North, which often prioritized religious and ethnic affiliations over competence. He urged a shift towards evaluating candidates based on their capabilities and track records. Reflecting on his banking experience, he recalled a time when Kano was a bustling industrial hub, now diminished due to neglect. Drawing comparisons with countries like Bangladesh and the Netherlands, Obi pointed out that Northern Nigeria possesses more arable land and resources but lacks effective governance and policy implementation. He stressed the importance of building trust among Nigerians to overcome divisions and work collectively towards national development. In his address, former Attorney General Abubakar Malami acknowledged the deteriorating security situation in the North and called for collaborative efforts to rejuvenate the region.
President Bola Tinubu dispels rumors of conflict with governors over local government autonomy, emphasizing collaboration for Nigeria’s prosperity and development. President Bola Tinubu has refuted claims of disagreements with Nigerian governors regarding local government autonomy, emphasizing the importance of their collaboration in driving national development. Speaking during a New Year homage at his Ikoyi residence in Lagos, President Tinubu addressed Vice President Kashim Shettima and members of the Nigeria Governors Forum (NGF). He highlighted the pivotal role governors play in fostering economic growth, food security, and national prosperity. Governors as the Backbone of National Development President Tinubu stressed that state governors are the most critical link to achieving grassroots development, as the federal government only accounts for 30–35% of allocated revenue. “The agricultural value chain depends on you. You own the land, and the job is in your hands,” he stated. He urged stronger federal-state collaboration to address pressing issues, including local government autonomy, agricultural productivity, and currency stability. Commitment to Local Government Autonomy Dispelling rumors of conflict with the governors, Tinubu reiterated his support for local government development. “We will not fight within us. Nobody wants to take local governments away from you. Let’s collaborate to ensure Nigeria is better off for it,” he said. Focus on Agricultural Growth and Economic Stability Highlighting agriculture as a cornerstone of economic stability, President Tinubu encouraged governors to prioritize agricultural productivity and address currency challenges. “We have to work harder, grow more, and ensure the situation of our currency improves. Nigeria will see prosperity, but it requires consistent effort from all of us,” he noted. Acknowledging Progress and Resilience President Tinubu commended the governors for their achievements across various states, expressing pride in their collective progress. Reflecting on his 19 months in office, he shared optimism about Nigeria’s capacity to thrive under resilient leadership. “I am glad I asked for this job, and Nigerians gave me the mandate. We’ll be on this voyage together,” he said, adding that he plans to visit Enugu State on January 4 as part of his nationwide tour. Tinubu Named “Man of the Year” The President welcomed his recognition by ThisDay newspaper as Man of the Year, calling it an acknowledgment of the administration’s progress. Kwara State Governor and NGF Chairman Abdulrahman Abdulrazak lauded the recognition, citing significant policy successes in agriculture and economic restructuring. “The policies are working. In Jigawa, there was a bumper harvest, and traders exported the produce due to the currency strength,” Abdulrazak explained. He added that governors are working to enhance food security and support national economic policies. Strengthening Security and Development Governor Abdulrazak assured Tinubu of the governors’ unwavering support, particularly in bolstering local security frameworks to improve national safety. “We are getting more funding due to the restructuring of the economy. Yes, there is inflation, but we are overriding it,” he added. President Tinubu concluded by reaffirming his commitment to collaborative governance, ensuring that Nigeria continues on the path of progress and stability. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.
