President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reaffirmed his commitment to the establishment of State Police as part of efforts to strengthen security across Nigeria.
The President made this known on Friday at the State House, Abuja, during an interfaith breaking of fast attended by members of the House of Representatives.
Tinubu also pledged support for measures aimed at reducing the high turnover of lawmakers in future elections, noting the importance of legislative continuity.
“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,” the President said.
He further assured lawmakers of his willingness to support their political stability within the ruling party.
“I will do everything within our party’s power. In several constituencies, there are rotational arrangements. I wish that everyone would return,” he added.
The President expressed optimism about the country’s economic trajectory, stating that his administration’s policies, including the removal of fuel subsidy, 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,” Tinubu said.
Speaker of the House, Tajudeen Abbas, thanked the President for sustaining the tradition of hosting lawmakers for Ramadan and noted the unique coincidence of Ramadan and Lent this year.
He praised Tinubu’s leadership and said members across party lines were increasingly confident in the administration’s policies.
“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. With the economy improving, inflation decreasing, agricultural activities rising, and other positive indicators, Nigeria is on the right track,” Abbas said.
The Speaker also appealed to the President to support lawmakers seeking reelection, expressing concern that the high turnover rate in the National Assembly weakens legislative effectiveness.
According to him, when up to 80 percent of lawmakers do not return after elections, it disrupts institutional memory and forces new members to undergo extensive learning processes.