Gulf War: Provide Relief Measures as Inflation Threat Looms, Tinubu Tells Governors

Gulf War: Provide Relief Measures as Inflation Threat Looms, Tinubu Tells Governors

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has urged state governors to urgently roll out relief measures to cushion the impact of rising inflation, warning that the ongoing crisis in the Gulf region could worsen economic conditions for Nigerians.

The president gave the directive on Sunday while hosting Vice-President Kashim Shettima and members of the Nigerian Governors Forum at his Lagos residence during Eid al-Fitr celebrations.

Tinubu said the escalating tensions involving United States, Israel and Iran are already putting pressure on global energy markets, a development he warned would likely trigger higher fuel costs and increase the cost of living.

“We should care more for the vulnerable. I know this crisis will spike inflation and affect our purchasing power,” the president said.

He noted that with rising energy and transportation costs, labour unions and other groups may intensify calls for wage adjustments and government intervention, urging governors to act ahead of time.

“The labour unions and others will be gearing up to demand more support due to the effect of the crisis,” he added.

Tinubu emphasised the need for coordinated action across all levels of government, stressing that policies must directly address the realities faced by ordinary Nigerians.

Beyond the economic outlook, the president also addressed the issue of insecurity, describing it as a major barrier to development and prosperity. He assured that his administration is strengthening partnerships with international allies to improve Nigeria’s security capacity.

He disclosed that discussions during his recent visit to the United Kingdom focused on securing equipment and support for Nigeria’s security agencies. He also revealed that he had held further talks with Emmanuel Macron on enhancing collaboration.

“Insecurity is an enemy of development, progress, and prosperity. We must confront it collectively,” Tinubu said.

The president also commended Shettima for visiting Borno State following recent bomb attacks in Maiduguri, assuring that new technologies would be deployed to improve protection for residents.

Speaking on behalf of the governors, Chairman of the NGF and Kwara State Governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, appreciated the president’s leadership and described his recent diplomatic engagements as significant for Nigeria’s global standing.

He noted that discussions among governors are ongoing regarding the creation of state police, adding that a framework is being developed for submission to the National Assembly.

The meeting brought together governors from across the federation, reflecting growing concern over both economic pressures and security challenges facing the country.