A hybrid meeting of the National Council of State (NCS) is currently underway at the State House, Abuja, the second such gathering since President Bola Tinubu assumed office on May 29, 2023.
The closed-door meeting is taking place at the Council Chambers with Gen Abdulsalami Abubakar and other members participating virtually, is chaired by President Tinubu, with Vice President Kashim Shettima serving as Vice Chairman.
The maiden session of the Council under Tinubu was held on August 12, 2024.
The NCS is a constitutional advisory body that counsels the President on key policy matters. Its membership includes all former Presidents and former Heads of State, former Chief Justices of Nigeria, the Secretary to the government of the Federation (SGF), the President of the Senate, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, all 36 state governors, and the Attorney-General of the Federation.
Although not officially confirmed, President Tinubu is expected to present his nominee for the position of Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to the Council for consideration.
Among other key issues, the meeting is focusing on pressing national security challenges, including the surge in banditry, kidnapping, and communal violence across northern and central states.
The Council is also expected to deliberate and provide advisory input on measures to strengthen Nigeria’s security architecture.
The convening of the Council, officials say, underscores the President’s commitment to seeking broad-based counsel from past leaders and key state actors in addressing national priorities, particularly security and electoral leadership.
