NSA warns governors against planned protest

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Office of the National Security Adviser (NSA), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu during an high-level meeting with the 36 State Governors held on Tuesday night, expressed worry over the growing momentum over the planned nationwide protest by some aggrieved Nigerians, and the need for government’s attention.

The NGF Chairman, Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq who confirmed this in the 3-page communique issued at the end of the Forum’s 9th meeting which took place in Abuja, however, declined to address Journalists on the issues discussed behind closed doors which lasted for about four hours.

As contained in the communique personally signed by Governor AbdulRazaq stated: “The NGF received a briefing from the National Security Adviser’s (NSA) office on the current security situation in the country.

“The NSA noted the growing momentum for a planned protest demanding government attention.

“The NSA is committed to supporting the Governors in improving security architecture at the subnational level.

“The Governors thanked the NSA and reinstated its commitment to enhance the security of lives and properties at the subnational.”

The NGF Chairman also declined to comment on the issue of Local Government autonomy which was listed on the agenda for the meeting.

However, according to the communique issued at the end of the meeting, he confirmed that “Members received a briefing from the body of Attorneys General of the 36 States on the Supreme Court ruling on the financial autonomy of Local Governments.

“Members received a briefing from the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) on the recent change in the association’s leadership and other initiatives.

“The NBA expressed their commitment to working with the States in defense of our democracy and the rule of law.

“The Governors highlighted the importance of such a revered association and the role they play in ensuring effective governance.

“They assured the Governors of their continued collaboration and readiness to provide necessary support.”

The Forum also received a presentation from the Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Professor Ali Pate on the Nigeria Health Sector Renewal Investment Program (NHSRIP).

The Minister provided updates on the Sector-Wide Approach, the Basic Healthcare Provision Fund (BHCPF), Primary Health Care (PHC) Revitalization, and the National Supply Chain Management.

In acknowledging the successes recorded so far, the Governors reiterated their commitment towards improving health outcomes for all Nigerians.

Also at the meeting, the new Country Director of the World Bank, Mr. Ndiame Diop presented the Bank’s various programmes currently being implemented in the States, including HOPE (Human Capital Opportunities for Prosperity and Equality), Food and Nutrition Security, and Sustainable Power and Irrigation for Nigeria (SPIN) Project.

While welcoming the new World Bank Country Director, the Forum assured the delegation of the Governors’ continued support and expressed their willingness to support the programmes implementation across the country.

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