President Bola Tinubu has declared that the establishment of state police will no longer face delays, describing the initiative as a key component of his administration’s strategy to address insecurity nationwide.
He made the announcement on Monday night during an interfaith Iftar with governors and senior government officials at the Presidential Banquet Hall in Abuja.
The gathering marked the first Ramadan fast of the 2026 season.
Speaking at the event, Tinubu reaffirmed his administration’s resolve to decentralize policing in order to strengthen internal security through community-based structures better equipped to understand local challenges.
“What I promise you is not to be postponed. We will establish state police to combat insecurity,” the President said.
Tinubu also addressed the state of the economy, expressing optimism that the country is emerging from recent economic challenges. He noted that indicators of recovery are beginning to surface.
“We are out of the woods. We are out of the dark tunnel of uncertainty. The economy is showing up,” he declared.
The President further commented on political developments in Kano State, calling for calm and reconciliation. He appealed to Governor Abba Yusuf to exercise moderation amid tensions following his defection from the New Nigeria People’s Party to the All Progressives Congress, a move that distanced him from his former ally, Rabiu Kwankwaso.
While several lawmakers reportedly joined Yusuf in the APC, the deputy governor remained in the NNPP, fueling divisions within the state government.
Addressing the situation, Tinubu said, “I’m glad I see Abba from Kano, even though the cap is red, it’s not different from APC…I saw the crisis on TVC news, please temper justice with mercy.”
He also urged governors elected under the APC platform to remain inclusive and patient, particularly with younger members of the party, warning against marginalizing emerging voices.
“I will advise those in the same party with me to please bear in mind that those little ones, too, they cry. Tolerate everybody… Let’s see the young ones breathe too,” he said.
Tinubu commended Babagana Zulum, governor of Borno State, for extending Ramadan outreach to both Christian and Muslim communities, describing the initiative as a demonstration of unity and compassion.
“I saw the layout of the Ramadan outreach for both Christians and Muslims. It looked more robust. I thought you would eat all the 300,000 shares,” he added humorously.
The President noted that he continues to receive feedback from across the country, emphasizing that development efforts must reach grassroots communities and vulnerable populations.
“There are a lot of complaints and commendations coming from all angles. They will come from me too, but as long as we bridge together and we move together and determine to rescue this country, the best is yet to come to Nigeria,” he said.
Tinubu called on governors to prioritize unity and grassroots development, while also reflecting on the spiritual significance of Ramadan coinciding with the Christian Lenten season.
“You know what it means, discipline, sacrifice, faith, resilience, strong determination for us to continue to bridge together, pray together and love one another for humility, love for our neighbours and service for humanity,” he stated.
Vice President Kashim Shettima and Chief of Staff Femi Gbajabiamila were among top officials and governors in attendance at the event.
