President Bola Tinubu has said that Nigeria’s poverty is not inevitable.
The president made the remark while addressing governors from his ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) party on Friday. He called for national unity and inclusivity to overcome challenges.
In a statement by presidential spokesman Ajuri Ngelale, Tinubu said development policies would only have full relevance in people’s lives when there is inclusivity, ownership, and sustainability.
He said there is an abundance of human, natural, and material resources in Nigeria, adding that the financial system of the country would be re-engineered for inclusivity, effectiveness, and efficiency.
“We have no reason to be poor. Looking back on where we are coming from, where we have been, why we are facing infrastructural decay, a lack of quality and comprehensive education, as well as a lack of health facilities. We are not a cursed country, but blessed.”
Tinubu urged governors to devise a comprehensive and collaborative framework for the school-feeding program, inviting even opposition governors to participate. He envisioned this initiative as a catalyst for agricultural investment, particularly in the livestock and dairy sectors.
He also proposed the deployment of better-trained forest guards equipped with modern technology and the establishment of specialised police units to safeguard the lucrative solid mineral and marine economic sectors. He further advocated for the strategic purchase and reservation of minerals, especially gold, to bolster foreign exchange reserves.
“We have a big marine economy, and I do not see why we should not have the marine police. We will have the same in solid minerals to keep the scavengers away. I am ready to invest in security. We will buy our own minerals and keep them in reserves, especially gold, which will be effective in our foreign exchange reserves,’’ the president told the governors.
Governor Hope Uzodinma, Chairman of the Progressive Governors Forum, in his response, said they are committed to the President’s vision. He commended Tinubu’s inclusive approach, acknowledging the financial support provided to states.
“We will continue to support you as your able ambassadors, willing ambassadors, and capable ambassadors,’’ Governor Uzodinma said.
