President Tinubu Chairs Inaugural Council of State Meeting, Jonathan, Buhari in Attendance

President Bola Tinubu is currently chairing the inaugural meeting of the Council of State at the Aso Rock Villa in Abuja. The meeting is attended by former Presidents Goodluck Jonathan and Muhammadu Buhari, as well as other notable figures.

Former Heads of State, General Yakubu Gowon (retd.) and General Abdulsalami Abubakar (retd.), joined the meeting virtually, alongside the governors of Abia, Adamawa, and Akwa Ibom State.

The meeting began with an opening ceremony where attendees sang and recited the national anthem and national pledge, respectively. This marks the first meeting of the Council of State in 18 months, with the last meeting held on February 10, 2023, under former President Muhammadu Buhari.

According to sources, the agenda for the meeting includes discussions on recent events nationwide, particularly the #EndBadGovernance protests, the economy, food, and national security. President Tinubu is expected to make presentations on various key issues, including consolidating gains in the solid minerals sector, budgeting and planning for sustained development, and leading a strong industrial base for transformation and growth.

The National Council of State is a constitutional organ that advises the executive on policy-making, among other functions. Its role is largely advisory, guiding the President in decision-making processes on national security, appointments, and economic policies.

At the President’s behest, the Council meets to deliberate on crucial national issues, including national security, economic challenges, and the appointment of key public officials.

Notable attendees at the meeting include the Vice President, all 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.