Tinubu Urges Governors to Prioritize Grassroots Development: Launches Renewed Hope Ward Programme

In a decisive move to address poverty and stimulate economic growth at the grassroots level, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has called on state governors to intensify investments in poverty eradication, power, and agriculture. This directive was issued during the 150th National Economic Council (NEC) meeting held at the State House Council Chambers in Abuja.

President Tinubu emphasized the need for collaborative efforts between federal and state governments to uplift rural communities. He stated, "We must change the story of our people in the rural areas. The economy is working, and we are on the path of recovery, but we need to stimulate growth in the rural areas."

A significant outcome of the NEC meeting was the endorsement of the Renewed Hope Ward Development Programme (RHWDP). This initiative aims to drive inclusive development across Nigeria's 8,809 political wards by targeting at least 1,000 economically active individuals per ward. The programme seeks to promote productivity, reduce poverty, enhance security, and unlock community-level growth.

The RHWDP is anchored by the Federal Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning and represents a tripartite framework involving federal, state, and local governments. Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Senator Atiku Bagudu, described the programme as a "historic next step" in the government's reform agenda, aiming to generate double-digit growth in most wards as Nigeria progresses towards a $1 trillion economy.

In addition to launching the RHWDP, President Tinubu ordered the transfer of the Office of the Surveyor-General of the Federation to the presidency. This move is intended to enhance the seamless actualization of legacy projects, including the Lagos-Calabar and Sokoto-Badagry Super Highways.

The NEC also directed the strengthening of State Emergency Management Agencies (SEMAs) across all 36 states and requested the Federal Ministry of Finance to release emergency funds to address impending flood effects. This decision followed a presentation by Zubaida Umar, Director General of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), on the country's 2025 flood preparedness and response initiatives.

President Tinubu's call to action underscores his administration's commitment to grassroots development and the eradication of poverty through strategic investments in key sectors.

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