Nigerian governors speak on planned nationwide protest

 

The 36 Nigerian state governors have vowed to ensure the security of lives and property even as a nationwide protest against economic hardship is being scheduled to begin on August 1.

The governors under the aegis of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum, restated their commitment after the National Security Adviser, NSA, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu briefed them on the protest.

On his part, Mallam Ribadu promised to support the governors in improving security architecture at the subnational level.

In a communique signed by the NGF Chairman and Governor of Kwara State, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq,and made available on Thursday, the governors said: “The NGF received a briefing from the National Security Adviser’s (NSA) office on the current security situation in the country. The NSA noted the growing momentum for a planned protest demanding government attention. The NSA is committed to supporting the governors in improving security architecture at the subnational level. The governors thanked the NSA and reinstated its commitment to enhance the security of lives and properties at the subnational.”

The Communique also said, “The Forum received a presentation from the Honorable Minister of Health and Social Welfare on the Nigeria Health Sector Renewal Investment Program (NHSRIP). The minister provided updates on the Sector-Wide Approach, the Basic Healthcare Provision Fund (BHCPF), Primary Health Care (PHC) Revitalization, and the National Supply Chain Management. Governors reiterated their commitment to improving health outcomes for all Nigerians.

“Members received the new Country Director of the World Bank, Mr. Ndiame Diop, and his team. They introduced themselves to the Forum and presented the Bank’s various programmes currently being implemented in the states, including HOPE (Human Capital Opportunities for Prosperity and Equality), Food and Nutrition Security, and SPIN (Sustainable

“Welcomed the new Country Director and his team, assured them of the governors’ continued support, and expressed their willingness to support the programmes implementation across the country.

“Members received a briefing from the body of Attorneys General of the 36 states on the Supreme Court ruling on the financial autonomy of local governments.

“Members received a briefing from the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) on the recent change in the association’s leadership and other initiatives. The NBA expressed their commitment to working with the States in defence of our democracy and the rule of

“The governors highlighted the importance of such a revered association and the role they play in ensuring effective governance. They assured the governors of their continued collaboration and readiness to provide necessary support.”