The Progressive Governors Forum (PGF) has pledged to ensure that Nigerians directly benefit from President Bola Tinubu's economic reforms. Chairman of the forum and Imo State Governor, Senator Hope Uzodimma, made this statement while briefing Tinubu in Lagos on the activities of the governors forum since the President's month-long vacation in Europe. Uzodimma emphasized that the governors have moved beyond explaining the reforms to ensuring that their dividends are felt by ordinary Nigerians.
Uzodimma cited the Federal Government's Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) initiative as an area where the benefits of the reforms should be directly felt by citizens, particularly through lower transportation costs. He urged transport operators to pass the savings on to passengers, saying that the reduction in the cost of energy through CNG should translate into lower fares for commuters. This, he believes, will create a win-win situation for both transporters and commuters.
The PGF chairman stressed that the governors will not merely "sing the songs of reform" but will work to ensure that the people experience its impact. He emphasized that the masses will feel the impact of the policies and that the dividends should be impactful. Uzodimma's statement reflects the commitment of the governors to ensuring that the benefits of the reforms reach the people.
Uzodimma shared his experience in Imo State, where he became governor in 2021. He recalled that the state often struggled to meet its obligations after paying salaries. However, with the implementation of Tinubu's reform policies, the situation has changed, with Imo State now able to pay salaries while also having resources to execute government projects.
The governor noted that the impact of the reforms can also be seen in the improved financial capacity of states. He stated that most governors are very active, with a lot of projects underway. Uzodimma expressed confidence that the governors remain committed to ensuring that the benefits of the reforms reach the people.
Uzodimma's meeting with Tinubu was aimed at briefing the President on developments in the country during his absence and updating him on the activities of the progressive governors. He described the meeting with Tinubu as a "quality conversation", adding that the governors had also been preparing for renewed political activities ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The Imo governor said the governors are grateful for the reforms and have been tasked with ensuring that Nigerians understand and experience their dividends. He believes that this will enable people to understand the benefits of the reforms, adding that the ultimate test of the policies will be their impact on citizens' daily lives.
Key points
- APC governors are working to ensure Nigerians benefit from President Tinubu's economic reforms
- The governors are committed to ensuring that the benefits of the reforms reach the people
- The impact of the reforms can be seen in the improved financial capacity of states
