President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has expressed satisfaction with the improving financial position of state governments, stating that many states are no longer dependent on federal interventions to meet salary obligations.
The President made the remarks on Friday while hosting members of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF), led by Vice President Kashim Shettima, during a Sallah homage at his Lagos residence.
Reflecting on his journey to the presidency, Tinubu described the period leading to the 2023 election as one of the most challenging moments of his political career, marked by intense political and legal battles.
“At the time, I faced the challenge of trying to become the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. It was very challenging and tough for those who stood with me. Some kept faith, and instead of dodging the bullets, I took them,” the President said.
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Tinubu acknowledged the support of governors and party members who remained loyal despite uncertainties surrounding the policies his administration would eventually implement.
According to him, Nigeria has successfully moved away from the threat of economic collapse and is beginning to witness the gains of key economic reforms introduced by his administration.
“Instead of bankruptcy, Nigeria has survived. The economy has recovered and is growing. Agriculture is improving, food supply is increasing, and infrastructure projects are progressing across the country,” he stated.
The President commended governors for helping to sustain public confidence and patience during the implementation of reforms, which he described as difficult but necessary.
He noted that macroeconomic indicators have improved significantly, while abandoned infrastructure projects are being revived and the housing sector is witnessing renewed growth.
“I am glad that out of the governors who previously relied on federal interventions, states are no longer struggling to pay salaries. No more,” Tinubu added.
Speaking on behalf of the governors, the Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum and Governor of Kwara State, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, said the removal of fuel subsidy and other fiscal reforms had strengthened the financial capacity of states.
He noted that many state governments have been able to clear salary and pension arrears, reduce debt burdens, and execute critical infrastructure and social investment programmes.
“I think the nation was shocked by the audacity of Mr President to implement that policy, but today the country has benefited immensely from it,” AbdulRazaq said.
The Kwara governor further suggested that the national minimum wage could eventually rise to N100,000 as state finances continue to improve.
Also speaking, Chairman of the Progressive Governors’ Forum and Governor of Imo State, Hope Uzodinma, commended Tinubu’s leadership, describing his economic reforms as bold measures that helped stabilise the country.
“You have virtually recovered Nigeria from the brink of collapse to a state of stability and survival,” Uzodinma said, adding that governors had assessed the President’s performance and awarded him a “100 per cent” score.
Kano State Deputy Governor, Alhaji Murtala Sule Garo, represented Governor Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf at the meeting.