President Bola Tinubu welcomed state governors and other top government officials to a Ramadan Iftar dinner at the Presidential Villa in Abuja. The gathering, held at the Presidential Banquet Hall, brought together political leaders to break their fast in unity during the holy month of Ramadan. Among the attendees were governors from various states, including Hope Uzodinma of Imo, Dapo Abiodun of Ogun, Monday Okpebholo of Edo, Usman Ododo of Kogi, Babagana Zulum of Borno, Inuwa Yahaya of Gombe, Ahmed Aliyu of Sokoto, Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta, Mohammed Bago of Niger, Umar Namadi of Jigawa, Abdullahi Sule of Nasarawa, Abba Kabir Yusuf of Kano, Agbu Kefas of Taraba, Bassey Otu of Cross River, and others. The Deputy Governor of Bauchi State was also present, alongside Vice President Kashim Shettima, Chief of Staff Femi Gbajabiamila, and several cabinet members.
This annual tradition reflects President Tinubu’s commitment to fostering unity and collaboration among political leaders. During previous Iftar gatherings, he has emphasized the need for selfless leadership and urged officials to prioritize governance over politics. In 2025, he called on governors and ministers to focus on improving citizens’ lives, reminding them that Nigeria should be seen as one family regardless of religious or ethnic differences. The following year, he reiterated the importance of setting aside political rivalries to concentrate on effective governance, declaring that the time for politics had ended and the time for governance had begun.
The event serves not only as a religious observance but also as a platform for dialogue and national cohesion. President Tinubu is expected to host additional Iftar dinners with senior officials, traditional leaders, and members of the diplomatic community throughout Ramadan. These gatherings reinforce his message of unity and collective responsibility, encouraging leaders to work together for the nation’s progress.
The atmosphere at the Presidential Villa was one of camaraderie, with leaders exchanging greetings and discussing matters of national importance. The Iftar dinner provided an opportunity for reflection and solidarity, aligning with the spirit of Ramadan, which emphasizes charity, compassion, and togetherness.
As the evening progressed, attendees shared meals and engaged in conversations that transcended political affiliations. The presence of governors from diverse regions highlighted Nigeria’s cultural and political diversity, while the President’s address underscored the shared responsibility of leadership.
President Tinubu’s approach to governance has often included such symbolic gestures, reinforcing his belief in the power of unity. By bringing leaders together during Ramadan, he aims to strengthen relationships and encourage a collaborative approach to addressing national challenges.
The event also showcased the administration’s commitment to inclusivity, as leaders from different states and backgrounds gathered under one roof. The Iftar tradition is expected to continue in the coming weeks, with more gatherings planned to engage various stakeholders in the spirit of the holy month.
Through these interactions, the administration seeks to build trust and foster a sense of common purpose among Nigeria’s political elite. The President’s emphasis on governance over politics resonates with many who believe that sustained development requires cooperation and a focus on the people’s welfare.
As the night concluded, attendees left with a renewed sense of commitment to their roles in nation-building. The Iftar dinner not only fulfilled a religious obligation but also served as a reminder of the values that should guide leadership—unity, service, and collective progress.
In the days ahead, President Tinubu’s engagements during Ramadan will likely continue to emphasize these themes, reinforcing his vision for a more united and prosperous Nigeria. The event at the Presidential Villa was a testament to the administration’s efforts to bridge divides and promote a shared national agenda.