President Bola Tinubu has expressed concern over the poor governance at the grassroots level, urging state governors to prioritize local communities’ needs and improve their service delivery.
President Bola Tinubu has called on state governors to enhance their focus on grassroots governance, emphasizing the need for effective delivery of democracy dividends to local communities.
Speaking at a meeting with the leadership of the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) at the Presidential Villa in Abuja on Thursday, Tinubu highlighted various issues, including education, security, and economic challenges.
“We are running a constitutional democracy. I will appeal to you to summon the governors. I am doing my very best to enhance the revenue base of the country. They must equally be sympathetic and urgently consider the needs of the local people,” Tinubu stated in a release by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Ajuri Ngalale.
The President lamented the lack of attention given to local communities, which he noted are crucial during elections for garnering votes. He urged the ACF leadership to encourage governors to address the needs of the people in the councils. Tinubu questioned the effectiveness of the 774 local government areas in Nigeria, stressing the need for accountability and coordinated development efforts among local, state, and federal governments.
“People reside in the local communities. That is where they work, farm, and live. If the local governments are not effective in delivering services; as leaders, we must not hang on to the numbers. We have 774 local government areas, but are they truly effective? Do they solve problems for Nigerians?” Tinubu asked. “Maybe we should look at recalibrating. What was good four years ago may not be good today. When we want the votes, we go to the locals; when we get the votes, we move to and focus on Abuja.”
Addressing the issue of out-of-school children, Tinubu described the situation as unacceptable and highlighted the critical role of education in nation-building. He also commended National Security Adviser Mallam Nuhu Ribadu for his efforts in improving national security and promised further investments in technology to ensure the safety of Nigerian citizens.
“Everybody wants to be secure, and we need to invest more in technology. We will do it, I promise you. We will put our heart and soul into ensuring that Nigeria is secure and its citizens are protected,” Tinubu assured.
The President called for national unity and continued support for his administration as it tackles the country’s challenges. He also directed the establishment of a committee to follow up on the issues raised during the meeting, assigning Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, to lead the follow-up efforts.
