Former state governors who served between 1999 and 2007, under the banner of the Class of ’99 Governors Forum, have called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to adopt a more sustainable economic strategy by establishing cottage industries across all local government areas in Nigeria. This, they argue, would be far more beneficial to the Nigerian people than the current policy of N5,000 cash palliatives.
The governors, who were Tinubu’s contemporaries during his tenure as Governor of Lagos State, made this recommendation after a closed-door meeting with the President at the Presidential Villa in Abuja on Friday.
Speaking on behalf of the forum, former Governor of Edo State and Chairman of the Class of ’99 Forum, Lucky Igbinedion, emphasised the urgent need for job creation and economic empowerment at the grassroots level, particularly in rural communities.
“People in rural areas are bearing the brunt of the harsh economic climate,” Igbinedion said. “We advised Mr President that rather than handing out N5,000 palliatives that can barely sustain an individual for a day, there is a need to establish cottage industries across the 774 local government areas in the country. These industries would create employment, empower families, and foster long-term economic growth.”
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Highlighting the limitations of the palliative scheme, he added: “If you give someone N5,000 today, what happens by lunchtime or dinner time? The money is not enough to sustain anyone meaningfully. Industries will provide a lasting solution.”
Security was another key issue raised during the meeting. Igbinedion stressed that meaningful development cannot occur in the absence of peace and stability.
“First and foremost, there must be security. Without security, there can be no progress. We also discussed the importance of stabilising the economy, particularly the naira and foreign exchange rates, to improve affordability and business confidence,” he stated.
The meeting also touched on matters concerning agriculture and broader economic reforms. According to Igbinedion, President Tinubu received the governors warmly and listened attentively to their concerns and recommendations.
“We came to visit one of our own to deliberate on the state of the nation. Mr President expressed concern over the same issues we raised—security, the economy, and agriculture. He assured us that he is actively working on these fronts and welcomed our suggestions. It was a very fruitful engagement,” Igbinedion said.
He concluded by expressing appreciation for the President’s openness and willingness to engage in constructive dialogue. “He assured us that his doors remain open for more discussions on the way forward, and we look forward to contributing further ideas for national development.”
The visit from the Class of ’99 Governors adds to the growing chorus of voices urging the Federal Government to adopt policies that provide sustainable solutions to Nigeria’s socio-economic challenges, especially amid rising inflation and increasing hardship faced by citizens across the country.
