President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has urged state governors across Nigeria to intensify efforts in poverty eradication, economic empowerment, and sustainable development initiatives that directly benefit citizens. Speaking at a high-level policy meeting in Abuja, the president emphasized that true national progress cannot be achieved unless every tier of government commits to lifting people out of poverty.
Addressing a gathering of state executives, ministers, and policymakers, Tinubu said his administration is committed to building a Nigeria that works for everyone, not just the elite. He stressed that governors must take ownership of the fight against poverty in their respective states, noting that state governments are closer to the grassroots and better positioned to understand and address localized challenges.
“It is not enough to depend on federal allocations,” Tinubu stated. “We must get creative, prioritize human capital development, invest in agriculture, education, healthcare, and small businesses. Our people are suffering, and we cannot afford to fail them.” The president warned that unless urgent action is taken, the poverty rate will continue to be a threat to national security and stability.
He called on governors to design tailored policies that meet the unique economic realities of their states while aligning with the national framework for poverty reduction. Tinubu also emphasized the importance of collaboration among federal and state agencies, saying coordinated efforts would yield faster and more impactful results.
Highlighting some of his administration’s initiatives, Tinubu referenced the Renewed Hope Agenda, which focuses on social safety nets, job creation, digital economy expansion, and access to credit for small businesses. He urged state governments to key into these programs and scale them at the local level. He also encouraged public-private partnerships as a strategy to boost infrastructure and job opportunities.
The president did not shy away from mentioning the inefficiencies in the system that have hindered progress. He criticized some governors for misallocating funds or investing in white elephant projects, warning that such actions only prolong hardship for ordinary Nigerians. “We must be honest with ourselves. Our people don’t need more billboards, they need clean water, roads, hospitals, and schools,” he said.
Reactions from state governors were mixed, with some pledging renewed commitment to poverty eradication, while others called for more equitable revenue allocation and policy flexibility. The Governor of Borno State, Babagana Zulum, praised Tinubu’s call as timely and necessary, especially for northern states battling poverty and insecurity. Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu said more collaboration between federal and state governments was key to achieving results.
Policy experts have applauded the president’s message, describing it as a necessary wake-up call. They noted that while Nigeria has the resources to improve lives, poor governance and lack of accountability continue to undermine development. With the president’s directive, many are hopeful that governors will adopt more people-centered governance and redirect funds toward initiatives that have lasting impact.
As Nigeria continues to battle inflation, youth unemployment, and economic inequality, the president’s call serves as a reminder that reducing poverty is not just a federal duty but a collective responsibility that requires decisive, coordinated action from all levels of government.
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