HAPPY DEMOCRACY DAY Today, we celebrate the resilience of Nigeria's democratic journey and the enduring values of freedom, participation, accountability, and the rule of law. Democracy remains the foundation upon which inclusive governance, sustainable development, and national progress are built. It is a shared commitment that empowers citizens, strengthens institutions, and promotes collective responsibility in shaping our future. As we commemorate Democracy Day, the Nigeria Governors' Forum reaffirms its dedication to supporting policies and reforms that improve service delivery, deepen democratic governance, and enhance the well-being of all Nigerians. Together, let us continue to strengthen our institutions, uphold democratic ideals, and build a more prosperous, united, and inclusive Nigeria.

Today, I assented to the Benue State Electricity Law 2026, a landmark legislation designed to transform our state’s power sector and unlock new economic opportunities for our people. This law is a deliberate step toward strengthening our economy.

Video Highlight of the just concluded recce mission in collaboration with @afreximbank in preparation for the #AFSNET2026 conference scheduled for November.

In Paris, France, I led a high-level technical session with Africa Global Logistics (AGL) Group and other partners on the Ibom Deep Sea Port Project. The meeting reviewed the recently completed technical feasibility report and focused on the next steps required to move the project from planning to execution. I emphasized the need for clear timelines, defined milestones, and accelerated implementation. The Ibom Deep Sea Port remains a key strategic project for our State. We are committed to working with our partners to bring this vision to reality and position Akwa Ibom as a major maritime, trade, and logistics destination.

As part of the build-up to the African Sub-Sovereign Governments Network (AfSNET) Conference scheduled for November in Calabar, Cross River State, the Nigeria Governors’ Forum Secretariat, represented by Mr. Eghosa Omoigui, Head, Stakeholder Relations and SDGs, participated in a recce mission alongside a delegation from Afreximbank led by Mr. Chidi Ileka and members of the Local Organising Committee led by High Chief Prof. Eyo Etim Nyong. The delegation paid a courtesy visit to Governor Bassey Otu @officialspbo to assess readiness and strengthen coordination efforts ahead of the landmark event. The visit provided an opportunity to review key logistics, engage with relevant stakeholders, and align preparations for a successful conference. AfSNET serves as a platform for fostering collaboration among sub-sovereign governments across Africa, promoting trade, investment, knowledge exchange, and sustainable development. The forthcoming conference is expected to convene policymakers, development partners, financial institutions, and private-sector leaders from across the continent to explore innovative solutions for accelerating regional growth and economic transformation. #AFSNET2026

Yesterday, we hosted representatives of the Sustainable Energy Acess Projects (SEAP) for a presentation on innovative clean cooking solutions aimed at expanding access to affordable and sustainable energy across Nigeria. The engagement provided an opportunity to explore the potential of natural cooking gas technology, discuss its affordability, accessibility, environmental benefits, and examine pathways for scaling adoption across states and local communities. Participants highlighted the importance of developing sustainable energy alternatives that can improve livelihoods, protect public health, create jobs, and support Nigeria’s transition to cleaner energy sources.

Happy Birthday to H.E Douye Diri @govdouyediri Today, we celebrate a leader whose dedication to peace, unity, and sustainable development continues to shape the future of Bayelsa State. Your commitment to strengthening governance and improving the lives of citizens reflects the true spirit of public service. As you mark another year, we wish you continued wisdom, strength, and success in your efforts to advance progress and prosperity for the people Bayelsa State and Nigeria at large.

As we enter the sixth month of the year, the Nigeria Governors' Forum reaffirms its commitment to the work that matters most: strengthening governance systems and ensuring that public services reach every Nigerian in every state. June marks the midpoint of the year. It offers an important opportunity to reflect on progress made, identify areas where gaps remain, and renew our collective resolve to deliver results where they are needed most. From healthcare and education to infrastructure, agriculture, and social protection, the NGF continues to convene, collaborate, and drive policy action that translates into meaningful improvements in the lives of citizens. As we move into the second half of the year, we remain focused on supporting state governments to implement innovative solutions, deepen intergovernmental cooperation, and advance reforms that promote inclusive growth and sustainable development.

Today, we celebrate His Excellency, Governor Dapo Abiodun, a leader whose commitment to service, peace, and the development of Ogun State continues to inspire many. On this special occasion, we honour your dedication to the people, your vision for progress, and your steadfast leadership. May this new year bring you wisdom, strength, good health, and even greater accomplishments in service to Ogun State and Nigeria. We wish you many more years of impactful leadership and grace. Happy Birthday, Your Excellency @DapoAbiodunCON .

The Nigeria Governors Forum extends warm Eid greetings to all Muslim faithfuls celebrating today. May this moment bring peace, joy, and abundant blessings to you, your family, and entire community. The spirit of this season; sacrifice, unity, and compassion mirrors the values that guide good governance: the willingness to put the people first, to serve with humility, and to build communities where no one is left behind. As sub-nationals reaffirm their commitment to the welfare of every citizen, we draw inspiration from this season to govern with greater purpose, equity, and care for the most vulnerable among us. We wish all Nigerians a joyous celebration, filled with gratitude, good health, and togetherness. Eid Mubarak.

The spirit of this season; sacrifice, unity, and compassion mirrors the values that guide good governance: the willingness to put the people first, to serve with humility, and to build communities where no one is left behind.

The Nigeria Governors Forum (NGF), through its Gender Department, has concluded the Inaugural NGF Gender Knowledge Exchange Convention in Lagos. The convention brought together Commissioners of Women Affairs, gender experts, and key stakeholders from across Nigeria's 36 states to discuss strategies for strengthening collaboration on gender equality and women's economic empowerment. The gathering served as a platform for peer learning, experience sharing, and policy dialogue, covering critical areas including policy domestication, gender-responsive budgeting, institutional strengthening, and pathways to advancing women's participation in governance and economic development at the subnational level.

Today, we celebrate His Excellency, Governor Hyacinth Alia (@HyacinthAlia), a leader whose commitment to service, peace, and the development of Benue State continues to inspire many. On this special occasion, we honour your dedication to the people, your vision for progress, and your steadfast leadership. May this new year bring you wisdom, strength, good health, and even greater accomplishments in service to Benue State and Nigeria. Happy Birthday, Your Excellency. We wish you many more years of impactful leadership and grace.

The Nigeria Governors’ Forum congratulates His Excellency, Senator Ademola Adeleke @AAdeleke_01, Executive Governor of Osun State on the occasion of his 66th birthday. As a committed member of the forum, Governor Adeleke continues to exemplify the spirit of people-centred governance, championing workers' welfare, infrastructure development, and agricultural expansion across Osun State @Osun_State_Gov. We celebrate his life of service and wish him continued good health, wisdom, and prosperity. Happy Birthday, Your Excellency

Yesterday, the Director-General of the Nigeria Governors' Forum, Dr. Abdulateef Shittu, led a high-level delegation to the Kaduna State Governor's Lodge for a strategic engagement with Governor Uba Sani (@ubasanius) on the rollout of the State Agribusiness Investment Programme (SAIP) facilitated by the Rice HelpDesk in Kaduna State. The visit focused on securing the Governor’s endorsement and strengthening state-level commitment to agricultural transformation. Following the engagement, the Governor formally endorsed the initiative and pledged to establish and personally chair the State’s Rice Development Council. This commitment marks a significant step toward accelerating rice sector development, attracting agribusiness investments, and strengthening food security in Kaduna State. #SAIP #NigeriaGovernorsForum

The Nigeria Governors’ Forum Secretariat was hosted in a strategic engagement by the Federal Ministry of Solid Minerals Development (@Solid_Min_Dev) chaired by the Minister, Dr. Henry Alake (@AlakeDele) (Rep. Perm. Secretary, Engr. Faruk Yusuf Yabo), to strengthen collaboration and improve policy coordination at the subnational level. Discussions focused on institutional frameworks for implementation, stakeholder engagement, and the role of the Joint Technical Committee and Communities of Practice in driving seamless collaboration between the Ministry and state governments through the NGF platform. The meeting further reinforced the importance of partnerships in advancing sustainable development and effective policy delivery across Nigeria.