By Mairimi Lawal
President Bola Tinubu, alongside Vice President Kashim Shettima, convened a crucial meeting with State Governors and the FCT Minister at the State House today.
The discussions primarily focused on addressing pressing national issues, notably the surging food prices and escalating insecurity across the country.
Following extensive deliberations, President Tinubu and the Governors pledged to work collectively to alleviate the economic strains burdening citizens.
Key directives emerged from the President's address to the Governors:
1. Insecurity Resolution Strategies:
- President Tinubu emphasized the urgent need to combat insecurity, proposing three pivotal measures:
- Expansion of police personnel to bolster security forces.
- Collaboration with State Governments and the National Assembly to establish state police structures, replacing current vigilante methods.
- Enhancement of Forest Rangers' capabilities and equipping them to safeguard all forested areas from criminal activities.
2.Food Price Stabilization:
- The President advocated for increased collaboration between State and Federal Governments to amplify local food production. He discouraged reliance on food imports and urged support for local producers.
3. Combatting Food Hoarding:
- President Tinubu instructed law enforcement agencies to monitor and halt food hoarding practices by merchants nationwide. This directive aimed to curb profiteering and ensure food accessibility for all.
4. Livestock Development Focus:
- Governors were urged to prioritize livestock development, particularly in poultry and fishing sectors, within their respective states.
5. Worker Welfare and Financial Management:
- The President stressed the importance of settling salary arrears, gratuities, and pensions to inject liquidity into the economy. He urged Governors to manage state finances prudently.
6. Youth Empowerment:
- President Tinubu called for the creation of more economic opportunities to engage youths productively, thus mitigating social challenges.
Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information & Strategy, underscored the commitment of the government to collaborate with state stakeholders in addressing critical national issues.
Published on February 15, 2024.
