President Bola Tinubu, on Monday, hosted state governors to a Ramadan Iftar at the State House, Abuja, stressing the need for unity and inclusive governance.

The annual event brought together governors, deputy governors and senior government officials to break the fast.

Vice-President Kashim Shettima, chief of staff to the president, Femi Gbajabiamila, and cabinet members also attended.

Addressing the gathering, Mr Tinubu thanked God for sparing their lives to witness another Ramadan.

“It is a joy and a great honour to be with you again this year,” he said.

The president stated that the Ramadan fast coincided with the Christian fasting period.

“You know what it means, discipline, sacrifice, faith, resilience and love for one another,” he said.

Mr Tinubu urged the governors to embrace unity, tolerance and inclusive leadership.

“In this period of unity, harmony and sacrifice, let the young ones breathe too,” he advised.

He commended the governors for progress recorded in their states.

“I’ve seen a lot of progress being made in the states. I can’t commend you enough,” the president said.

Mr Tinubu assured them that the country was overcoming economic challenges.

“We are out of the dark tunnel of uncertainty. The best is yet to come for Nigeria,” he said.

He reiterated his commitment to strengthening security and promoting development across the grassroots.

The president urged leaders to embrace the downtrodden and spread opportunities widely.

Speaking with journalists, Governor Hope Uzodinma of Imo, described the Iftar as an interfaith gathering.

“It is once in about 33 years that Christian and Muslim fasting coincide. It teaches unity,” he said.

Mr Uzodinma said the governors were working with the president in good faith for national development.

The Iftar forms part of Mr Tinubu’s annual Ramadan tradition of hosting political leaders during the Holy month. 

(NAN)