President Bola Tinubu on Monday reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to establishing state police as a strategic measure to tackle insecurity across Nigeria. Speaking at an interfaith Ramadan Iftar hosted at the Presidential Banquet Hall, the President noted that the initiative would not be postponed.
Addressing governors and senior officials, Tinubu declared, “What I promise you will not be postponed. We will establish state police to combat insecurity.” The event marked the commencement of Ramadan 2026 fasting season and underscored the administration’s focus on unity and security.
The President also expressed optimism regarding Nigeria’s economy, stating, “We are out of the woods. We are out of the dark tunnel of uncertainty. The economy is showing up.” This upbeat economic outlook signals growing confidence in national recovery under Tinubu’s economic policies.
On political stability, Tinubu appealed for calm in Kano State amid ongoing tensions, urging Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf to “temper justice with mercy.” He also called on members of the ruling All Progressives Congress to be inclusive, particularly in nurturing young party members. “Let’s see the young ones breathe too,” Tinubu urged, emphasizing tolerance within the party.
Highlighting acts of goodwill during the Ramadan period, Tinubu praised Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum for organizing outreach programs benefiting both Muslims and Christians. “The initiatives showed a very, very good spirit,” he remarked.
The President shared that he had received both commendations and complaints from various states, including Niger State, referring warmly to Governor Mohammed Bago as “my son, the farmer from Niger.” He encouraged unity and sustained collaboration, affirming, “The best is yet to come to Nigeria.”
Tinubu urged governors to extend development initiatives to grassroots levels, promoting inclusiveness and compassion in governance. He emphasized the significance of the concurrent Ramadan and Christian Lenten season as a time for “discipline, sacrifice, faith, resilience and strong determination” to foster unity across Nigeria’s diverse religious communities.
The event also featured remarks from Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma, representing the Nigeria Governors’ Forum Chairman, who praised the President’s efforts to promote national unity and harmonious governance. Uzodimma described the overlapping religious observances as “a special situation created by God” encouraging interfaith solidarity.
Vice President Kashim Shettima, Chief of Staff to the President Femi Gbajabiamila, cabinet members, and numerous state governors attended the gathering, which closed with prayers led by the State House Chief Imam and Governor Agbu Kefas for Muslims and Christians, respectively.
This Iftar dinner marked the third consecutive year President Tinubu has hosted political and government leaders to commemorate Ramadan, underscoring his commitment to fostering interfaith dialogue and national cohesion.
