The World Bank has expressed strong approval for the implementation of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's socio-economic stabilisation agenda, specifically highlighting the effectiveness of the Nigeria Community Action for Resilience and Economic Stimulus (NG-CARES) programme.
World Bank Applauds NG-CARES Programme Impact
In a significant endorsement, the global financial institution confirmed that the Additional Financing for the NG-CARES programme is yielding positive results. The bank clarified that this extra funding allows for continued disbursements to all 36 states. These funds are crucial for supporting livelihoods, enhancing food security, financing public works, and building community resilience against economic shocks.
The Nigeria Governors' Forum (NGF) shared this development in a communique released after its monthly meeting held on 18 December 2025. The forum, chaired by Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq of Kwara State, revealed that state governors have unanimously renewed their pledge to maintain the programme's implementation speed. They are also focused on ensuring timely reporting and maximizing the use of funds to achieve measurable outcomes for Nigeria's most vulnerable households.
Heightened Security Alert for Festive Season
The NGF communique, which contained three key points, was publicly read by Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun. It detailed a critical security advisory received from the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA).
The NSA's communication called for heightened security preparedness across all states of the federation. This directive was issued in anticipation of increased risks during the 2025 festive season. The security office cited factors such as significant population movements, large public gatherings, and a general rise in public safety threats as reasons for the alert.
In response, Governor Abiodun stated, "Governors are committed to strengthening interagency coordination, protecting critical infrastructure, and maintaining a visible security presence in identified hotspots to ensure a safe, incident-free festive period nationwide."
Primary Health Care Awards Recognise State Progress
The forum also reviewed the results of the third Primary Health Care (PHC) Leadership Challenge Awards, which were held on 12 December 2025. The event recognised thirteen states for making outstanding progress in strengthening their primary healthcare systems.
Yobe State was declared the national overall winner of the challenge. The following states topped their respective geopolitical zones:
- Zamfara State
- Nasarawa State
- Abia State
- Rivers State
- Osun State
Additionally, six states were named first runners-up: Kwara, Gombe, Kaduna, Anambra, Bayelsa, and Ogun States.
The governors acknowledged that these results demonstrate the importance of sustained political leadership and accountability fostered through peer review. They committed to building on these achievements to further improve the delivery of primary health care services across Nigeria.
