President Bola Tinubu has called on political leaders to direct more resources and policies toward addressing the needs of the poor and vulnerable. Speaking at a Ramadan fast-breaking event on Monday night at the State House, Abuja, the President emphasized the importance of selfless leadership and service to the people.
“I thank you all for responding to this invitation. You honoured it out of respect, not because you don’t have enough to eat or share,” Tinubu told the gathering, which included governors, members of the Federal Executive Council (FEC), Service Chiefs, and selected Heads of Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs).
The President acknowledged the role of political leaders in meeting citizens’ expectations and praised the implementation of people-oriented policies that have started yielding positive results in human development and economic indicators.
Reflecting on the progress of his administration’s economic reforms, Tinubu attributed their success to the collective efforts of the FEC and the collaboration of leaders at the subnational level.
“I recall in our first FEC meeting, I said we were going to work hard to fetch water from a dry well. We are still working hard to ensure that there is water to drink and that we spend money, not the people. You, the leaders at the subnational levels, are also doing all you can to spend money, not the people,” he said.
He urged leaders to see themselves as navigators guiding the country to a better future, stressing the importance of leaving a positive legacy.
“Look at yourselves as navigators that will bring the country to the promised land. Standing here as President is a great honour, and you can’t trade it. Continue doing what you are doing. And do more for the people,” Tinubu stated.
The President likened Nigeria to a large family, where people live in different rooms but must work together for collective progress.
In his remarks, Chairman of the Nigeria Governors Forum and Kwara State Governor, Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq, commended Tinubu for taking bold and decisive steps to reform the Nigerian economy.
Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia, who led Christian prayers at the event, highlighted the significance of Muslims and Christians fasting simultaneously, calling it a symbol of unity.
Minister of Justice and Attorney General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi, also praised the administration’s reforms, noting that they had contributed to a steady decline in food and commodity prices and improved livelihoods.
The gathering underscored the administration’s commitment to economic transformation and the well-being of Nigerians, with Tinubu urging continued dedication to service and governance.
