Nigeria on life support when Tinubu assumed office — Akpabio

Senate President and Chairman of the 10th National Assembly, Senator Godswill Akpabio, has likened Nigeria’s condition to being on “life support” when President Bola Tinubu assumed office in May 2023.

Speaking at his 2024 Constituency Briefing and Empowerment Programme held at the Ikot Ekpene Township Stadium, Akpabio, representing Akwa Ibom Northwest Senatorial District, appealed to Nigerians to support the President’s efforts in addressing the nation’s economic challenges.

“Nigeria was on life support,” he remarked, emphasizing the urgency of Tinubu’s reforms.

Akpabio highlighted the administration’s major policy changes, including the removal of fuel subsidies, floating of the naira, and the introduction of tax reforms, as necessary steps for recovery.

Recounting a conversation with President Tinubu about the state of the economy, Akpabio shared:

“I once asked him, ‘Are you excited about being president after seeing the economy left behind by Emefiele?’ He replied, ‘I must tell you, I didn’t know it was this bad.’”

The Senate President expressed optimism in Tinubu’s ability to navigate the challenges, drawing on his record as a former Lagos State governor.

“You did it in Lagos, and you will do it again for Nigeria. It’s just a matter of time. We are praying for you, and God will grant you the wisdom to lead us to El Dorado,” Akpabio said.

Addressing attendees, Akpabio advised beneficiaries of the empowerment programme to utilize their tools for economic upliftment instead of selling them.

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“We have enough foodstuff to distribute; there should be no stampede. These items are being extended beyond Ikot Ekpene to other senatorial districts in the state,” he assured.

He also commended Akwa Ibom Governor Umo Eno for promoting peace and inclusivity.

“Without peace, there cannot be development. The governor has embraced all Akwa Ibom people, regardless of political affiliations,” Akpabio noted, while acknowledging the governor’s distribution of 1,000 bags of rice to the APC family and announcing an additional 1,500 bags for the PDP State Chairman.

Akpabio applauded Senate Minority Leader, Senator Abba Moro, for fostering unity in the Senate.

“Everyone in the Senate has an equal voice, regardless of party affiliation. Opposition is good, but it should be constructive,” he said.

Senator Moro praised Akpabio’s leadership, stating:

“It takes wisdom to know what to give people for lasting benefits rather than instant gratification.”

Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong, Chairman of the Senate Committee on NDDC, described the empowerment programme as “mega, marvellous, and magnificent.”

The event drew prominent leaders, including Minister of Petroleum Resources (Gas) Obongemem Ekperikpo Ekpo, APC Chieftain Senator Ita Enang, Senator Ekong Sampson (Akwa Ibom South), and the Paramount Rulers of Ikot Ekpene and Essien Udim.

In his closing remarks, Akpabio stressed the importance of collective efforts in building a better Nigeria and reaffirmed his commitment to serving his constituents through impactful development initiatives.

NIGERIAN TRIBUNE