The Council of State, alongside several governors in Nigeria, has unanimously passed a vote of confidence in President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, recognizing his leadership amid ongoing challenges in the country.
During the council’s meeting at Aso Villa in Abuja, which included participation from both current and former leaders, members reflected on the state of the nation and commended Nigerians for their resilience in maintaining democratic stability. The meeting marked the first time the advisory council convened since President Tinubu assumed office last year.
Among those present were former Presidents Muhammadu Buhari and Dr. Goodluck Jonathan, as well as former military Heads of State General Yakubu Gowon and Gen. Abdulsalami Abubakar, who joined virtually. However, former President Olusegun Obasanjo and former Military President General Ibrahim Babangida were notably absent.
Kwara State Governor and Chairman of the Nigerian Governors’ Forum (NGF) Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq, speaking to reporters after the meeting, highlighted the council’s unanimous support for President Tinubu. He stated, “The high note of the meeting was a unanimous passage of a vote of confidence in President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Members, especially those of the Nigerian Governors’ Forum, were satisfied with the presentations by the Federal Executive Council members.”
Abdulrazaq also conveyed the council’s satisfaction with the ongoing implementation of the Renewed Hope Agenda, presented by seven Federal Executive Council members. These presentations included updates from National Security Adviser (NSA) Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, Minister of Solid Minerals Development Dr. Dele Alake, Minister of Finance Wale Edun, and Minister of Trade and Investment Dr. Doris Anite-Uzoka.
No Room for Coups, Council Affirms
Dr. Dele Alake, Minister of Solid Minerals Development, emphasized the council’s stance against any unconstitutional attempt to change the government, particularly in light of recent protests labeled as a “movement to effect a change of regime by force.” He stated, “The council affirmed that nobody will be allowed to change the government except through the ballot box.”
Alake also noted that the NSA reassured the council of the nation’s security, affirming that measures are in place to protect Nigeria’s democracy and territorial integrity. “Any change of government has to be through the ballots and not through the barrel of the gun or through insurrection or any other unconstitutional means,” Alake stressed.
Economic Progress on Track, Says Finance Minister
Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, reported encouraging economic progress to the Council, citing positive developments in the balance of payments, trade balance, and current account balance. Despite challenges such as high inflation, Edun highlighted efforts to stabilize the exchange rate and attract both foreign and domestic investment.
“We reported that there was good progress being made…with an optimistic outlook for the Nigerian economy and society in general,” Edun concluded, emphasizing the administration’s commitment to continuing interventions aimed at alleviating the high cost of living and fostering economic growth.
The Council of State’s strong endorsement of President Tinubu’s leadership comes at a critical time for Nigeria, as the nation navigates complex economic and security challenges.
