Tinubu urges govs to prioritise poor, backs state police at interfaith fast-breaking

President Bola Tinubu on Monday called on state governors and religious leaders to pursue policies that support the poor and underprivileged, as he hosted governors to an interfaith fast-breaking at the Presidential Villa in Abuja.

The President said the overlap of the Muslim Ramadan and the Christian Lenten season highlighted shared values of discipline, sacrifice and compassion, urging leaders to translate those values into programmes that directly improve livelihoods at the grassroots.

Tinubu said the fasting period should encourage governments to deepen poverty-reduction efforts and expand opportunities for young people.

“We must embrace the downtrodden, the young ones and all supporters so that development opportunities reach the grassroots and local governments,” he said, adding that more could be achieved in empowering youths and tackling unemployment.

The President reiterated his administration’s plan to establish state police to strengthen security across the country, describing the move as a practical reform aimed at empowering states while reinforcing national coordination.

“Security is the foundation of prosperity… We will establish state police to curb insecurity. This is not about politics; it is about practicality,” he said.

Tinubu also commended several governors for initiatives during the fasting period, including Babagana Zulum for outreach to both Muslims and Christians. He welcomed Abba Kabir Yusuf to the State House and encouraged leaders to promote unity, tolerance and inclusive development.

Representing the Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum, Hope Uzodimma said the simultaneous fasting period was a reminder for Christians and Muslims not to allow religious or ethnic differences to shape political decisions.

Uzodimma commended the President for fostering collaboration between federal and state governments and urged continued support for vulnerable groups during the fasting season.

Tinubu maintained that Nigeria was emerging from economic uncertainty, expressing optimism that ongoing reforms would deliver growth, reduce unemployment and strengthen national unity.