President Bola Tinubu is currently leading the Council of State meeting at the Aso Rock Villa in Abuja. This inaugural meeting, chaired by President Tinubu, includes former Presidents Goodluck Jonathan and Muhammadu Buhari, who are present at the venue.
Additionally, former Heads of State, General Yakubu Gowon (retired) and General Abdulsalami Abubakar (retired), are participating virtually, along with the governors of Abia, Adamawa, and Akwa Ibom states.
The meeting commenced at 12:35 PM local time, beginning with an opening ceremony where attendees sang the national anthem and recited the national pledge. This is the first meeting of its kind in 18 months since the Council last met on February 10, 2023, under former President Buhari. That meeting focused on the 2023 elections, issues arising from the new naira policy, and fuel scarcity.
This current gathering aims to address recent national developments, such as the #EndBadGovernance protests, and focuses on the economy, food security, and national safety. Sources familiar with the agenda have indicated that President Tinubu and his predecessors will discuss seven critical topics. These include the nationwide protest’s impact on national security, the state of the economy, and food security, focusing on availability and affordability.
President Tinubu is expected to present topics such as consolidating gains in the solid minerals sector, renewing hope in budgeting and planning for sustained development, advancements in the road sector, and strengthening the industrial base for transformation and growth.
Further details reveal that relevant ministers will present on behalf of the President. The National Security Adviser, Mr. Nuhu Ribadu, will address the nationwide protests concerning national security. The Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Abubakar Kyari, will discuss food availability and affordability, while the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Mr. Dele Alake, will present on his sector. Other ministers, such as the Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Abubakar Bagudu, and the Minister of Works, David Umahi, will also provide briefings.
The National Council of State, a constitutional body in the Nigerian government, advises the executive branch on policy-making and other functions. The Council consists of the President (as chairman), the Vice President, 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.
While its role is primarily advisory, the Council guides the President in decision-making processes regarding national security, appointments, and economic policies. The Council meets at the President’s discretion to deliberate on crucial national issues, including national security, economic challenges, and appointing key public officials like the chairman and members of the Independent National Electoral Commission, the National Population Commission, and the Police Service Commission.
