Politics
Perform Or Be Voted Out, Buhari Warns Governors-Elect
President Muhammadu Buhari has emphasized the importance of delivering on campaign promises and urged incoming governors to prioritise the needs of the people.
He made the call on Monday at the opening of the 2023 induction for re-elected and elected governors with the theme: Governing for Impact (Building Sub-national Governance), organised by the Nigeria Governors Forum (NGF) at the presidential villa, Abuja.
In a speech delivered by the Chief of Staff to the President, Ibrahim Gambari, President Buhari commended the democratic process in Nigeria, highlighting the recent general elections that saw the election of a new president and 28 newly elected or returning governors.
According to him, democracy is an ongoing process that requires constant self-reflection and improvement to ensure inclusivity and faith in the system.
The president shared his personal experience as a veteran of the democratic process, urging patience, tolerance, and the appropriate channels for seeking redress in case of unfair practices.
He reminded the governors that on May 29, they would assume office and become responsible for their respective states, inheriting all the assets and liabilities associated with governance
Noting the increasing maturity of the electorate, President Buhari stressed that public officers who fail to meet the expectations of the people or deliver on their campaign promises would be voted out in the next election.
He called for the promotion of ideals that address the challenges of democracy and governance in the country and acknowledged the critical role of sub-national governments in socio-economic development.
Buhari highlighted the progress made during his tenure, despite challenging fiscal conditions.
He emphasised the government’s focus on infrastructure development, agriculture, and strengthening the armed forces.
The president also commended the efforts and sacrifices of the armed forces in maintaining Nigeria’s territorial integrity and combating insurgency.