President Bola Tinubu has extended his appreciation to Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, commending his statesmanship amidst the recent political turmoil in the state.
This acknowledgment was conveyed during a meeting with the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) at the president’s residence in Lagos on December 26, 2023. President Tinubu’s public statement marks the first since the political crisis, primarily triggered by the feud between Governor Fubara and Nyesom Wike, erupted in Rivers State.
President Tinubu emphasized the crucial need for peace and stability in Nigeria to propel the nation forward. Addressing the assembled governors, he stated, “Nigeria needs peace and stability to move forward. Nigeria belongs to all of us, and we have to take care of it. I thank you for your statesmanship. I listened to your broadcast and your emphasis on peace. It is only with peace that effective governance can thrive, and governance has commenced in earnest under my watch.”
The president also urged for enhanced collaboration between the Federal and sub-national governments, emphasizing joint responsibility for rapid infrastructural development. In discussions related to the 2024 Budget proposals before the National Assembly, President Tinubu shared insights from a review meeting earlier in the day with the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun, and the Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Sen. Atiku Bagudu.
Tinubu underscored the importance of discarding rigid classifications of roads and adopting a holistic approach to development. He urged, “I want us to discard federal, state, or rural road classifications. We must regard development as a joint responsibility. Let us prioritize our children. The school feeding programme must return quickly, beginning from the local government to the state and federal governments. We must be ready to protect our children and prepare them for the future.”
Despite opposition from various individuals and stakeholders who rejected the peace deal initiated by President Tinubu, Governor Fubara, in a Christmas broadcast, reaffirmed his commitment to implementing the 8-point presidential peace agreement. Fubara emphasized that the peace accord should not be perceived as a death sentence. Having taken the time to scrutinize the terms, he concluded that the peace pact is not as detrimental as portrayed by those genuinely opposed to it.
This development highlights the ongoing efforts to reconcile political differences and foster stability in Rivers State. President Tinubu’s recognition of Governor Fubara’s statesmanship adds a positive dimension to the discourse, emphasizing the importance of collaborative governance and prioritizing the welfare of the nation’s children.
As the political landscape continues to evolve, the emphasis on joint responsibility and cooperation between different levels of government becomes increasingly crucial. President Tinubu’s call for a unified approach to development, particularly in the context of infrastructure and education, reflects a broader vision for the nation’s progress. The implementation of the school feeding programme at various government levels underscores the commitment to safeguarding the well-being of children and preparing them for a promising future.
In conclusion, the recent developments in Rivers State, coupled with President Tinubu’s statements, underscore the significance of diplomacy and collaboration in resolving political crises. The focus on peace, joint responsibility, and effective governance sets a positive tone for the nation’s trajectory. As Nigeria navigates its political landscape, the commitment to inclusivity and development at all levels of government will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in shaping the country’s future.
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