Abuja: The Progressive Institute has called on Nigerians to hold state governors and local government chairmen accountable for grassroots development, stressing that the Federal Government’s constitutional role is limited.
The Institute argued that meaningful progress at the community level depends on effective leadership and transparent governance at the state and local tiers, urging citizens to demand results and challenge neglect.
By highlighting the constitutional boundaries of federal authority, the Institute underscored the need for Nigerians to shift focus toward governors and council leaders who directly shape everyday development outcomes.
Mr Lanre Adebayo, Director-General of the APC-affiliated think tank, addressed journalists at a news conference in Abuja on Thursday.
He said citizens must recognise that development largely occurred at the state and local levels, and that governance is a partnership between the people and government.
We must empower citizens to fully understand the limitations of the Federal Government and proactively demand accountability from their leaders at all levels. Citizens should take the initiative to seek answers and press for local progress.
“At the end of the day, we need to appreciate leadership and the investments being made to move the country forward.
“Security under the President Bola Tinubu-led administration is improving, although we still face challenges like every nation. In fighting bandits, the country has done very well.
“The collaboration between Nigeria and the U.S. Government in combating insecurity is yielding results. More resources have been invested in arms and ammunition. Security officers are also receiving retraining,” he said.
Adebayo urged Nigerians to appreciate security personnel for their sacrifices in tackling insecurity across the country.
He also said there had been a significant improvement in manufactured exports under the Tinubu administration.
Adebayo announced plans to partner with Jade and Jayden Services Limited to promote government policies, programmes, benefits and opportunities.
He said the initiative would engage Nigerians on the achievements of the Renewed Hope Agenda and address regional challenges.
According to him, the partnership will expose citizens to the benefits of policy, noting that each government policy has intended beneficiaries.
“Our goal is to work together to advocate government policies, benefits and opportunities.
“From the removal of fuel subsidy and the floating of the naira, there has been a massive improvement in infrastructure.
“Nigeria has been removed from the IMF list of debtor nations, though we are still clearing about 1.61 billion dollars in outstanding debt. “The European Union has also removed Nigeria from high-risk third countries. These results came from President Tinubu’s reforms,” he said.
Mr James Williams, Managing Director of the consulting firm, said he was honoured to partner with the institute, describing the decision as conviction-driven.
He thanked the institute for its trust and pledged that together they would tell Nigeria’s story accurately.
“Our commitment is to support initiatives that reinforce accountability, stability and sustainable growth in Nigeria,” he said.
Williams also pledged full support for the institute’s programmes and its progressive vision.
The firm will support a three-day mid-term sectoral review of the Renewed Hope Agenda.
The firm will also provide transparent reporting of reform progress and strengthen institutional credibility through structured documentation of measurable outcomes. Williams said the initiative would deepen democracy and enhance investor confidence. This will be done by clearly articulating policy direction and delivery.
He added that the firm would promote continuity and reform stability as the administration advances implementation.
According to him, the vision includes advancing responsible nation-building through credible public-private collaboration.