The Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) has reinforced its dedication to enhancing security and safeguarding lives and property across the nation, amid growing tensions over a nationwide protest scheduled from August 1 to 10. The protest, driven by the escalating cost of living and economic hardships, has garnered varied reactions from the public.
In a communiqué signed by its Chairman, Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, and released on Thursday, the NGF stressed the urgency of robust security measures to protect citizens. This declaration followed a Thursday morning meeting where the Forum discussed these pressing issues.
The NGF received a detailed presentation from the Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Mohammed Pate, outlining updates on the Nigeria Health Sector Renewal Investment Programme. The presentation covered the Sector-Wide Approach, the Basic Healthcare Provision Fund, Primary Health Care Revitalisation, and National Supply Chain Management, underscoring the governors’ commitment to improving health outcomes nationwide.
Additionally, the Forum was briefed by the National Security Adviser’s office on the current security landscape and the planned protest. The NSA pledged support to enhance security architecture at the subnational level, a commitment welcomed by the governors.
The meeting also included an introduction to the new Country Director of the World Bank, Ndiame Diop, who, along with his team, presented ongoing programmes in the states, such as HOPE (Human Capital Opportunities for Prosperity and Equality), Food and Nutrition Security, and SPIN (Sustainable Power and Irrigation for Nigeria Products). The governors assured their continued support for these initiatives.
The 36 state governors were briefed on the Supreme Court’s July 11 judgment affirming the financial independence of the 774 local governments, a significant step towards strengthening local governance. The Nigerian Bar Association also updated the Forum on its leadership changes and initiatives, reaffirming their commitment to collaborate with the states in defending democracy and the rule of law.
The NGF’s renewed focus on security, economic stability, healthcare, and local governance autonomy underscores its commitment to addressing the multifaceted challenges facing Nigeria today.
