First term governors elected under the All Progressives Congress banner have delivered a vote of confidence in President Bola Tinubu’s controversial economic reforms, even as they raised alarm over the deteriorating security situation plaguing various regions of the country. Meeting in Kebbi State on Tuesday, the governors issued a communiqué acknowledging the pain many Nigerians are experiencing but insisting that fundamental restructuring of the economy cannot be avoided.
Governor Nasir Idris of Kebbi State, speaking on behalf of his colleagues, outlined the group’s position that current reforms are essential to addressing what they described as interconnected fiscal, security and development challenges that have accumulated over years of mismanagement. The governors argued that measures being implemented are designed to ilize the economy, restore public finances to health, attract foreign investment, boost productivity and elish a foundation for sustained long term growth. They called on Nigerians to remain united during what they characterized as a difficult but necessary transition period.
While backing the economic direction set by the federal government, the governors emphasized that relief measures and social protection programs must be strengthened at all levels of government to cushion the impact on vulnerable citizens. Their statement reflects growing awareness within the ruling party that economic reforms, however necessary they may be from a policy perspective, are testing the patience of ordinary Nigerians facing rising costs of living and reduced purchasing power. The governors’ dual message of support and concern suggests an attempt to balance loyalty to the party’s national leadership with responsiveness to constituents feeling the pinch.
On the security front, the governors did not mince words about the gravity of threats facing communities across the country. They expressed deep concern over persistent terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, s on educational institutions and other violent crimes that continue to claim innocent lives and disrupt economic activity. The communiqué pledged enhanced collaboration with federal authorities, security agencies, traditional rulers and local communities to improve protection of lives and property. Particular condemnation was reserved for the abduction of children and s on schools, with the governors calling for intensified efforts to rescue victims and ensure perpetrators face prosecution.
Beyond Nigeria’s borders, the governors also weighed in on reported s and ings involving Nigerian citizens and other African nationals in South Africa. They condemned what they characterized as xenophobic violence and called on South African authorities to conduct thorough investigations and ensure adequate protection for foreign nationals residing in the country. This international dimension to their communiqué reflects concern that violence against Nigerian expatriates could complicate diplomatic relations and damage the country’s standing within the African Union and broader continental frameworks.
Looking ahead, the governors’ statement sets the stage for what is likely to be a critical period for the Tinubu administration as it seeks to maintain political support while pursuing economic policies that impose short term hardship. Whether the reforms will deliver the promised long term benefits before public patience runs out remains an open question. Similarly, the governors’ pledges on security will be judged not by rhetoric but by measurable improvements in the safety of communities that have endured years of violence. How effectively the ruling party’s state level leaders can deliver on both economic relief and security gains may well determine their prospects for reelection and the political trajectory of the APC in the years ahead.
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