President Bola Tinubu has urged governors across the country to pursue policies that prioritise the poor and underprivileged, stressing the need for compassion, tolerance, and inclusive development.

The President spoke on Monday while hosting governors for the breaking of an interfaith fast at the Presidential Villa, noting that the simultaneous observance of Ramadan and Lent underscores Nigerians’ shared humanity.

According to a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu said the periods of abstinence and penitence provide leaders an opportunity to reflect on citizens’ struggles and design programmes that directly impact livelihoods.

“It is a joy and great honour to be with you again this year to give thanks to the Almighty God for sparing our lives and keeping us together to see another Ramadan. A great Ramadan that coincides with that of the Christian faith, Lent. You know what it means: discipline, sacrifice, faith, resilience, and strong determination to continue to bridge together, pray together, and love one another,” the President said.

He charged governors to deepen efforts aimed at reducing poverty and empowering young people.

“Tolerate everybody and build structures in this period of faith, unity, harmony, and sacrifice that you are experiencing. Let the young ones breathe too,” he added.

Tinubu welcomed Kano State Governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf, to the State House and also made reference to developments in Ebonyi State, urging restraint.

The President further commended Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum, for extending Ramadan outreach programmes to both Christians and Muslims, describing the gesture as commendable. He also praised the Niger State Governor, Mohammed Umar Bago, for agricultural initiatives in his state.

Reiterating his administration’s commitment to improving the economy and tackling insecurity, Tinubu said plans to establish state police remained on course.

“We will establish state police to curb insecurity. This is not about politics. It is about practicality. It is about empowering states with the tools to protect their people while strengthening our national framework,” he stated.

He emphasised that development must transcend religious, ethnic, and social divisions.

“Development must not recognise religion. Compassion must not recognise tribe. Opportunity must not recognise status. I am determined to rescue this country,” the President said.

Speaking on behalf of the Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum, Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma described the concurrent fasting period as divinely inspired and commended Tinubu for promoting national unity amid religious and ethnic tensions.

The interfaith gathering formed part of activities marking the simultaneous observance of Ramadan and Lent.