Governors across Nigeria have reaffirmed their pledge to improve governance in line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s call to “wet the grass further.” The assurance came during Independence Day celebrations, where state leaders expressed their readiness to leverage the improved Federation Account revenues and ongoing national reforms for development.
From N700 billion shared monthly before the removal of fuel subsidy in May 2023, allocation to the federation, states, and councils has now risen to over N2.2 trillion as of August. The surge in revenue, governors said, has created new opportunities to fast-track projects across health, infrastructure, agriculture, and security.
While the Federal Government marked the 65th Independence Anniversary with a presidential broadcast and the commissioning of the refurbished National Arts Theatre in Lagos, governors across the country used their platforms to urge Nigerians to remain united, patriotic, and supportive of the Tinubu administration’s bold reforms.
Calls for Unity and Development
Kogi State Governor Usman Ododo emphasised patriotism, pledging people-focused policies, while sympathising with victims of a recent boat mishap in Ibaji Local Government. Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang urged sober reflection, reaffirming his administration’s dedication to peace and prosperity.
Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo praised Tinubu’s bold reforms, noting that Nigeria was freed from “satanic subsidy rackets” that drained the nation’s wealth. Similarly, Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori said his “MORE Agenda” complemented the President’s Renewed Hope Agenda to improve living standards.
Enugu’s Peter Mbah described independence as a reminder of sacrifice and progress, promising inclusive growth. Adamawa’s Ahmadu Fintiri likened Nigeria’s unity to rivers flowing into one mighty stream, insisting division would undermine progress.
Ondo Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa lauded Tinubu’s “visionary leadership” and assured that Nigeria was on the path of glory. Ogun Governor Dapo Abiodun described the reforms as timely, stressing that nation-building required collective effort from all citizens.
Kaduna’s Uba Sani highlighted massive infrastructure projects and peace-building initiatives while pledging alignment with national reforms. Benue’s Hyacinth Alia reported strides in education, including 354 renovated schools and 9,000 newly employed teachers.
Anambra Governor Charles Soludo described Nigeria as “the hope of the black race,” supporting reforms like subsidy removal and exchange rate stabilisation. Lagos Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu called for collective responsibility, assuring residents that his THEMES Plus Agenda would ensure inclusivity and welfare.
Renewed Commitment to Nigeria’s Growth
Other leaders, including Governors Alex Otti of Abia, Ademola Adeleke of Osun, and Chukwuma Soludo of Anambra, stressed the importance of unity, rule of law, and patriotism as Nigeria enters a new phase of economic restructuring. Across the board, governors praised Tinubu’s economic blueprint while reminding citizens that sacrifices today would yield a more prosperous tomorrow.
As the nation marks 65 years of independence, the governors’ messages reflect a renewed pledge to drive development, strengthen peace, and deliver dividends of democracy to Nigerians.
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