President Bola Tinubu is currently presiding over the National Council of State meeting at the State House Council Chamber in Abuja.
This marks the first such meeting since Tinubu took office in May 2023. The session has brought together key figures, including former Presidents, Goodluck Jonathan and Muhammadu Buhari, who are attending in person, while former Heads of State Generals, Yakubu Gowon and Abdulsalami Abubakar are participating virtually.
Other prominent attendees include Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, and Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila. Several state governors are present, such as Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State, Hope Uzodinma of Imo State, and Babagana Zulum of Borno State, among others. Governors such as Alex Otti of Abia State, Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State, and Ahmadu Fintiri of Adamawa State are joining virtually. Additionally, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, is attending in person.
Also present are former Chief Justices, Alfa Belgore and Mahmud Muhammed, alongside key government officials such as National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, Minister of Justice and Attorney General of the Federation Lateef Fagbemi, Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of Economy, Wale Edun, and Minister of Works, David Umahi.
This council meeting follows recent nationwide #EndBadGovernance protests, where many Nigerians took to the streets to demand better governance amidst economic challenges, including the removal of fuel subsidies and the high cost of living. The National Council of State serves as a critical advisory body, offering guidance to the executive branch on policy matters.
