By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini
President Bola Tinubu has called on state governors to increase investments in poverty eradication, rural electrification, agriculture, and infrastructure to improve the lives of Nigerians.
Speaking at the 150th National Economic Council (NEC) meeting on Thursday, Tinubu emphasized the need for collaboration between federal and state governments to stimulate growth in rural areas.
“We must change the story of our people in the rural areas. The economy is recovering, but we need to do more to benefit the grassroots,” he said.
The NEC endorsed the Renewed Hope Ward Development Programme (RHWDP), a new initiative targeting Nigeria’s 8,809 wards to boost economic growth.
The plan, presented by Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Senator Abubakar Bagudu, aims to achieve double-digit growth by supporting agriculture, food security, and local economic activities.
Tinubu also directed the transfer of the Office of the Surveyor-General to the presidency to fast-track major infrastructure projects, including the Lagos-Calabar and Sokoto-Badagry highways.
Additionally, the council called for stronger state emergency agencies and the release of funds to tackle impending flood risks.
The RHWDP will be overseen by a National Steering Committee, with implementation handled by federal, state, and local governments.