Senate President Godswill Akpabio has publicly pledged the unwavering support of the 10th National Assembly to President Bola Tinubu, assuring him that his administration is not alone in its journey to implement the necessary reforms to transform Nigeria across various sectors.
Akpabio, expressing his full confidence in Tinubu’s leadership, underscored the importance of national transformation and highlighted the President’s ability to take tough and essential decisions for the greater good of the country.
This statement was made on Wednesday during a visit to President Tinubu at his Ikoyi residence in Lagos to mark the start of the New Year. Akpabio was accompanied by key National Assembly principal officers, including House of Representatives Speaker Tajudeen Abbas.
During the visit, the Senate President acknowledged Tinubu’s bold economic policies, particularly his decision to remove fuel subsidies. While he recognized the hardships these policies may cause for the average Nigerian, he emphasized their potential long-term benefits for the country’s future prosperity.[/p>
Akpabio affirmed, “This journey of reforming Nigeria, in all aspects, you are not alone. The National Assembly is with you. We will stand by you to ensure that we do not repeat past mistakes but instead work towards positive change.”
He continued, stressing the necessity of transformation and commending Tinubu for making difficult but essential decisions, particularly regarding the removal of the fuel subsidy, which had been a long-standing issue. Akpabio referred to the subsidy issue humorously but seriously, stating that it had been a problem for years, with some joking that if it were not addressed, it would “kill Nigeria.” Now that it has been dealt with, Akpabio expressed optimism for the country’s future despite the current challenges faced by citizens.
The Senate President also compared the current reforms to the pains of childbirth, suggesting that while the current hardships are difficult, they will ultimately result in a better and brighter future for Nigerians, much like the joy of childbirth after the pain subsides.
Akpabio extended his condolences to the President for the loss of lives in tragic events such as stampedes during rice distribution in Ibadan (Oyo State), Okija (Anambra State), and Maitama (Abuja). He emphasized that such tragic incidents were unfortunate but not due to deliberate negligence and were almost akin to natural disasters. He conveyed heartfelt sympathy to the President and the families of those affected, praying that their souls rest in peace.
In recognition of the sacrifices made by Nigeria’s military and other security agencies, Akpabio praised their efforts in ensuring national security and peace. He assured the President that the 10th National Assembly would continue to prioritize legislation that supports the work of security agencies and makes their tasks easier. He specifically noted that as the Commander-in-Chief of the armed forces, Tinubu has shown consistent commitment to safeguarding the nation.
Akpabio also acknowledged the steps taken by President Tinubu to foster a conducive environment for investment and business growth in Nigeria, emphasizing the ease of doing business and the improved international relations that have made Nigeria an attractive destination for investment. The Senate President highlighted the ease with which investors can now obtain visas and engage with the Nigerian economy, reflecting the country’s transformation under Tinubu’s leadership.
He further praised the successful issuance of a $2 billion Euro bond, which was fully subscribed in less than a week, demonstrating the continued interest of international investors in Nigeria’s potential. Akpabio noted that this success reflects confidence in the country, which he attributed to the democratic leadership of Tinubu, a former Senator, alongside the Vice President and First Lady, all of whom bring a deep understanding of democracy and freedom to their leadership approach.
In closing, Akpabio expressed gratitude for the reforms Tinubu has initiated, which are laying the foundation for a stronger, more prosperous Nigeria. He reiterated his support for the President, wishing him a Happy New Year and invoking divine blessings for continued success in Nigeria’s journey toward transformation.
