President Bola Tinubu has warned that the escalating tensions in the Middle East could worsen inflation in Nigeria, putting further pressure on citizens’ purchasing power.
The president spoke on Sunday while hosting Vice-President Kashim Shettima and 23 state governors at his Lagos residence to mark Eid al-Fitr.
Tinubu said the ongoing crisis involving the United States, Israel and Iran is likely to trigger higher global energy and transportation costs, with direct consequences for Nigeria’s economy.
“We should care more for the vulnerable. I know this Middle East crisis will spike inflation and affect our purchasing power,” he said.
He urged governors to roll out targeted incentives to cushion the impact, noting that labour unions may intensify demands for government support as economic pressures rise.
UK visit and security talks
The president returned to Nigeria on Friday after a three-day state visit to the United Kingdom, where he met Keir Starmer and was hosted by King Charles III.
Tinubu said discussions during the trip focused on strengthening security cooperation and securing equipment to tackle insecurity across Nigeria.
He also revealed follow-up talks with Emmanuel Macron on support for modern security interventions.
“Insecurity is an enemy of development, progress and prosperity,” Tinubu said, pledging intensified efforts to confront criminal activities nationwide.
Governors back reforms, push state police
Chairman of the Nigerian Governors’ Forum and Kwara State governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, commended Tinubu’s leadership and described the UK visit as a significant step in strengthening bilateral relations.
He added that governors are advancing discussions on the creation of state police, with plans to submit a legislative framework to the National Assembly.
The meeting also included governors from across the federation, who pledged continued collaboration with the federal government to address insecurity and economic challenges.
