“We Know Nigerians Are Hungry” — Governors Admit as Hardship Bites

The Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) has acknowledged the widespread hunger affecting the nation. Following an extended meeting in Abuja, the governors expressed their awareness of the challenges faced by Nigerians, while also voicing their support for the ongoing economic reforms spearheaded by President Bola Tinubu.

In the early hours of Thursday, Imo State Governor Hope Uzodinma addressed the media on behalf of the forum, sharing their collective hope for imminent relief. “Our prayer is that as soon as possible, the relief we are looking for should come, so we can begin to leverage the benefits of these reforms,” Uzodinma stated, emphasizing the governors’ concern for the impact of recent policies on citizens.

The meeting included a presentation from Mele Kyari, Group CEO of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), who confirmed the complete removal of fuel subsidies—a move that has driven up petrol prices three times in just two months. Kyari outlined NNPCL’s challenges, highlighting plans to mitigate the impacts of rising fuel costs on Nigerians. The governors pledged to work closely with NNPCL and the federal government to minimize the strain on citizens.

Governor Uzodinma also noted the forum’s discussions on supporting health initiatives and addressing security concerns. The NGF received a presentation from the African Medical Centre of Excellence, a new healthcare project supported by African Bank and in collaboration with King’s College Hospital in London, that aims to enhance specialized medical care in Nigeria. The center, once operational, will focus on advanced treatments in oncology, cardiovascular health, and other critical fields.

In a similar vein, the forum welcomed the Director General of the Department of State Services (DSS), who detailed new strategies to combat insecurity, including tackling issues of kidnapping, banditry, and other criminal activities. The governors pledged their commitment to these efforts, stressing the importance of a secure environment to foster both government and private sector activities.

The NGF also heard from the National Security Adviser’s office, which has now appointed a dedicated liaison to strengthen ties with state governments. “We believe these collaborations will improve security and reduce the cost of living,” Uzodinma commented.

Additionally, Uzodinma emphasized the need to enhance Nigeria’s oil refining capabilities, specifically through the support of the Dangote Refinery. He noted that reliance on imported petroleum products is unsustainable for an oil-producing nation like Nigeria. “We must support domestic solutions, such as the Dangote Refinery and the refurbishment of our Port Harcourt, Warri, and Kaduna refineries,” he said. “This approach will create jobs, reduce crime, and help us operate as a proud oil-producing nation.”

The governors closed by reiterating their commitment to national unity, urging Nigerians to support government initiatives aimed at improving economic conditions. They expressed hope that these ongoing reforms will ultimately bring tangible benefits, and called for a collective effort to move the country forward.