…Says Middle East Crisis Could Worsen Fuel, Transport Costs
…Tasks Govs With Implementing Citizen-Focused Interventions
Daud Olatunji
President Bola Tinubu has warned state governors that the ongoing crisis in the Middle East could trigger a fresh wave of inflation in Nigeria, urging them to roll out additional incentives to cushion the impact on citizens.
Tinubu gave the warning on Sunday while hosting Vice-President Kashim Shettima and 23 state governors at his Lagos residence during the Eid-el-Fitr celebrations.
The President said escalating tensions involving the United States, Israel and Iran were already posing risks to global energy prices, with potential ripple effects on transportation costs and the purchasing power of Nigerians.
“We should care more for the vulnerable. I know this Middle East crisis will spike inflation and affect our purchasing power,” Tinubu said.
He noted that organised labour and other groups might soon demand increased government intervention as the economic strain deepens.
The President, who recently returned from a three-day state visit to the United Kingdom, charged governors to implement policies and programmes that directly ease the burden on citizens, particularly the most vulnerable.
Tinubu also used the occasion to emphasise the need for stronger collaboration between the federal and state governments in tackling insecurity, which he described as a major threat to development.
“The next phase of our struggle is the challenge of insecurity in the country. Insecurity is an enemy of development, progress and prosperity,” he said.
He disclosed that discussions during his UK visit included securing support and equipment to strengthen Nigeria’s security architecture, adding that he had also engaged Emmanuel Macron on similar assistance.
According to him, efforts were ongoing to build international partnerships that would enhance modern security interventions across the country.
Tinubu further commended Shettima for visiting Borno State following recent bomb attacks in Maiduguri, assuring residents of improved protection through advanced technology.
Speaking on behalf of the governors, the Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum and Kwara State Governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, expressed appreciation to the President for his continued support to states.
He also lauded Tinubu’s recent trip to the UK, describing it as historic and beneficial to Nigeria’s bilateral relations.
AbdulRazaq said discussions on the establishment of state police were ongoing, adding that the forum would soon present its recommendations to the National Assembly to facilitate a legislative framework.
He stressed the commitment of governors to work with the Federal Government to address insecurity and improve the welfare of Nigerians.
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