Abuja: President Bola Tinubu on Thursday presided over the meeting of the National Council of State, with former Heads of State Ibrahim Babangida and Abdulsalami Abubakar attending virtually. The hybrid meeting was held at the Council Chambers of the Presidential Villa, with Tinubu arriving at precisely 1:29 p.m. to lead the session that included both physical and virtual participants.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the Council of State is composed of all surviving former Presidents and Heads of State, the Vice President, and both serving and retired Chief Justices of the Supreme Court. This session marks President Tinubu's second Council of State meeting since he took office, following the inaugural session held in August 2024.
In attendance at the meeting were Vice President Kashim Shettima, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, and House Speaker Tajudeen Abbas. The session also saw the participation of Secretary to the Government of the Federation George Akume and Minister of Justice and Attorney General of the Federation Lateef Fagbemi.
The National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu and Chief of Staff Femi Gbajabiamila were present, along with several serving governors. Former Chief Justices, including Muhammad Tanko, Mohammed Alfa Belgore, Walter Onnoghen, and Kayode Ariwoola, also attended the meeting.
The agenda of the meeting was expected to focus on critical national security issues and preparations for the upcoming 2027 general elections.