President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has urged state governors to intensify efforts in improving the welfare of Nigerians by investing in rural electrification, agricultural mechanization, poverty reduction, and critical infrastructure development. He made this call during the 150th National Economic Council (NEC) meeting at the State House in Abuja.
The President emphasized that Nigeria’s economic recovery requires targeted interventions at the grassroots, appealing to governors to collaborate with the Federal Government to stimulate growth in rural communities. “Let’s change the story of our rural areas. The economy is recovering, but we need to push growth where it matters most,” Tinubu stated.
In a significant move, NEC approved the Renewed Hope Ward Development Programme (RHWDP)—a strategy designed to drive social protection and economic activities in Nigeria’s 8,809 administrative wards. This initiative aims to boost double-digit economic growth by empowering communities through direct federal, state, and local government collaboration.
President Tinubu also directed the establishment of a National Steering Committee to oversee the programme’s implementation. Additionally, he ordered the transfer of the Office of the Surveyor-General of the Federation to the Presidency, ensuring seamless execution of legacy infrastructure projects like the Lagos-Calabar and Sokoto-Badagry Super Highways.
NEC Moves to Strengthen Emergency Flood Response Nationwide
Meanwhile, NEC resolved to fortify State Emergency Management Agencies (SEMAs) across all 36 states as part of Nigeria’s 2025 flood preparedness plan. This directive followed a comprehensive presentation by the Director-General of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), Mrs. Zubaida Umar.
NEMA outlined proactive steps taken to mitigate flood risks, including early warning dissemination, establishment of Local Emergency Committees, and activation of Emergency Coordination Centres nationwide. However, persistent challenges such as poor drainage systems, weak local emergency structures, and non-compliance with urban planning codes were identified as obstacles.
To bolster disaster response, NEC instructed the Federal Ministry of Finance to immediately release emergency funds to states, the FCT, and relevant federal agencies. State governments were also directed to prioritize environmental sanitation, enforce building regulations, and empower local authorities to lead risk mitigation efforts.
President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda continues to focus on grassroots empowerment, infrastructure renewal, and building resilient communities, positioning Nigeria towards sustainable development.
