Tinubu to Governors: “Wet the Grass More” — Do More for Your People
By Exponent News, Akure – July 25, 2025
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, has charged state governors—especially those elected under the All Progressives Congress (APC)—to intensify efforts to improve the lives of their people. Speaking during the APC National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting in Abuja, the President urged governors to “wet the grass more,” a metaphor calling for more meaningful governance at the grassroots level.
According to President Tinubu, with the increased federal allocations to states—reportedly higher now than in previous years—it is unacceptable for citizens to continue suffering under harsh economic conditions. He emphasized the need for the governors to ensure that the improved financial inflow translates into tangible development in their states.
“The suffering of the people, despite the increase in funds allocated to states, is a clear indication of poor resource management. Governors must do more to reflect these improved revenues in the daily lives of Nigerians,” the President stated.
Analysts lamented that basic commodities like rice and garri remain unaffordable for many Nigerians. “Garri now sells for between ₦900 and ₦1,000 per module. This clearly shows that most state governments are not responsive enough to market realities or the plight of the poor,” They said.
They also noted that insecurity continues to cripple agriculture across the country, with farmers unable to access their lands for fear of abduction. “This is unacceptable,” they added, pointing out that governors, as chief security officers of their states, must take decisive action to protect farmers and secure rural economies.
Echoing the leadership sentiments, former Kano State Governor and presidential candidate, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, called for stricter oversight of state expenditures. Speaking at a national constitutional review meeting held earlier this week, Kwankwaso said mismanagement of public resources at all levels—federal, state, and local government—remains a core problem stalling Nigeria’s progress.
According to the political analysts , “Until we address the reckless spending and misplaced priorities in governance, sectors like agriculture, education, and healthcare will continue to suffer,” they said.
Both Analysts and Kwankwaso emphasized the need for transparency, accountability, and people-focused leadership, warning that unless state governments begin to prioritize the needs of citizens over infrastructure and political interests, the economic hardship will persist.
