By Franklin Adole
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Monday night hosted state governors to an interfaith breaking of fast at the Presidential Villa, as Muslims observe Ramadan and Christians mark the Lenten season, using the occasion to reaffirm his administration’s reform agenda and commitment to national security.
In a personally signed statement shared on his verified X account, the President said the sacred period for the two major faiths was a reminder that leadership must be guided by conscience beyond politics and policy.
Tinubu commended the governors for their efforts and various outreach programmes during the holy month but urged them to intensify support for vulnerable Nigerians, particularly young people, women and grassroots communities.
“Development must not recognise religion. Compassion must not recognise tribe. Opportunity must not recognise status,” the President stated.
Reiterating his administration’s priorities, Tinubu declared that his promises to Nigerians would not be postponed, stressing that security remains the foundation for economic growth and national stability.
“Without it, farms cannot flourish, businesses cannot grow, and families cannot sleep in peace,” he said.
The President announced plans to establish state police as part of efforts to curb insecurity across the country, describing the move as a practical reform aimed at empowering states to better protect their residents while strengthening the national security framework.
“This is not about politics. It is about practicality,” he stated, adding that Nigeria must be bold enough to reform what is not working and united enough to preserve shared values.
Tinubu concluded by expressing optimism about the country’s future, saying Nigeria would become safer and stronger through collective commitment to national development, declaring,
“Nigeria First.”