President Bola Tinubu is currently presiding over a Council of State meeting at the Council Chambers of the Aso Rock Villa in Abuja. The inaugural meeting, convened by Tinubu, includes former Presidents Goodluck Jonathan and Muhammadu Buhari in attendance. Former Heads of State General Yakubu Gowon (retd.) and General Abdulsalami Abubakar (retd.) are participating virtually, along with the governors of Abia, Adamawa, and Akwa Ibom States.
The meeting commenced at 12:35 pm local time with an opening ceremony that featured the singing of the national anthem and the recitation of the national pledge.
This gathering marks the first Council of State meeting in 18 months, following the last one on February 10, 2023, which was convened by former President Buhari to address issues related to the 2023 elections, the new naira policy, and fuel scarcity.
The agenda for Tuesday’s meeting includes discussions on recent nationwide events, particularly the #EndBadGovernance protests, as well as topics such as the economy, food security, and national security.
According to sources familiar with the agenda, President Tinubu and his predecessors will focus on seven key issues:
1. Nationwide Protests and Their Impact on National Security.
2. The State of the Economy.
3. Food Security, Availability, and Affordability.
4. Consolidating Gains in the Solid Minerals Sector.
5. Renewed Hope in Budgeting and Planning for Sustained Development.
6. Renewed Hope in the Road Sector.
7. Building a Strong Industrial Base for Transformation and Growth.
A second source, who wished to remain anonymous, mentioned that relevant ministers will present on behalf of the President for each sector discussed.
“Although it states here that the President will be making these presentations himself his ministers will be briefing the Council on his behalf. For instance, we are expecting presentations by the National Security Adviser [Mr. Nuhu Ribadu], he will brief the Council on the nationwide protest as it affects national security.
“The Minister of Agriculture and Food Security [Abubakar Kyari] will discuss the food availability and affordability. The Minister of Solid Minerals Development [Mr. Dele Alake] will present on his sector, and the Minister of Budget and Economic Planning [Abubakar Bagudu] will present on budgeting.
“Minister of Works [David Umahi] will also present on the road infrastructure while the Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment [Dr. Dorris Uzoka-Anite], will present on building a strong industrial base,” the source explained, adding that while these ministers are not members of the Council, they will appear briefly for the talks.
The National Council of State is a constitutional body in Nigeria that advises the executive branch on various policy matters and plays a crucial advisory role in the government.
It is chaired by the President and includes the Vice President, all former Presidents and Heads of State, former Chief Justices of Nigeria, the Senate President, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, the Attorney-General of the Federation, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, and all state governors.
The Council’s primary function is to guide national security, economic policies, and other significant issues affecting the country. It convenes at the President’s request to discuss and deliberate on important national matters, including national security, economic challenges, and the appointment of key public officials such as the chairman and members of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), the National Population Commission (NPC), and the Police Service Commission.
