President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has renewed his advocacy for the creation of state police, arguing that decentralised policing remains essential to strengthening security nationwide.
The President made the remarks on Friday at the Presidential Villa during an interfaith breaking of fast attended by members of the House of Representatives. He also indicated his readiness to support initiatives aimed at reducing the high turnover of lawmakers in future elections.
Addressing the gathering, Tinubu commended the Speaker of the House, Tajudeen Abbas, for what he described as responsible leadership and teamwork within the lower chamber.
“I appreciate the impressive turnout, and this shows the spirit of unity. You spoke very well as a team leader; you are a very good leader. I am very happy with the representation I see here tonight, which reflects your consciousness and the richness of your leadership. I thank you for speaking so well.
“I will do everything within our party’s power. In several constituencies, there are rotational arrangements. I wish that everyone would return.”
The President expressed confidence in the country’s economic direction, stating that the reforms introduced by his administration were beginning to yield results.
“It was initially very difficult for many to understand the direction of my thinking, but I am glad we are out of the dark tunnel. Many even thought we could reverse the subsidy removal. The tension has subsided.
“I am proud of you. You collaborated with me, and today those challenges are over,” he added.
In his response, Speaker Abbas thanked the President for sustaining the tradition of hosting lawmakers for the Ramadan breaking of fast. He noted the symbolic significance of Ramadan coinciding with Lent this year, describing the moment as unique.
Abbas praised Tinubu’s leadership, stating that members across party lines now align with the administration’s direction.
“This is the first time that every member here, whether in the majority or minority, believes in what you are doing; believes in your government’s policies.
“In the first year, when you laid out your plans for the country, some people viewed them with pessimism. But with the economy improving, inflation decreasing, agricultural activities rising, and other positive economic indicators, Nigeria is on the right track. Many now see you as a Messiah,” the Speaker stated.
He added that governments often devote their first term to correcting inherited challenges, expressing expectations for further progress.
According to him, every administration uses its first term to correct the mistakes of previous ones, affirming that “we have not seen the best of you yet, which we all expect to see in your second term in 2027, as you now understand the magnitude of our challenges.”
Abbas also appealed for presidential backing to improve legislative continuity by encouraging the return of sitting members. He observed that when as many as 80 per cent of lawmakers fail to secure re-election, the National Assembly loses institutional memory and must invest time in orientating new members.