Kehinde Fajobi
Senate President Godswill Akpabio has said Nigeria was in a critical economic state when President Bola Tinubu assumed office in May 2023.
Speaking during his 2024 Constituency Briefing and Empowerment Programme at the Ikot Ekpene Township Stadium, Akpabio urged Nigerians, especially his constituents in Akwa Ibom State, to continue supporting Tinubu as he implements reforms to stabilise the economy.
“Nigeria was on life support when Asiwaju Bola Tinubu took over,” Akpabio said, recalling a candid conversation with the president.
“I once asked him, ‘Are you excited about being president after seeing the economy left behind by Emefiele?’ He replied, ‘Small president, I must tell you, I didn’t know it was this bad.’”
Akpabio acknowledged the challenges posed by reforms such as the removal of fuel subsidies, the floating of the naira, and the introduction of new tax policies.
He, however, expressed confidence in their long-term benefits, saying, “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.”
During the event, Akpabio distributed empowerment tools and food items to his constituents, advising beneficiaries to utilise them wisely.
“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 noted.
He also commended Governor Umo Eno for fostering peace and inclusivity in Akwa Ibom, adding, “Without peace, there cannot be development. The governor has embraced all Akwa Ibom people, regardless of political affiliations.”
Akpabio applauded the governor’s gesture of distributing 1,000 bags of rice to the APC family and announced an additional 1,500 bags for the PDP State Chairman.
The Senate President further praised Senate Minority Leader Abba Moro for encouraging constructive opposition in the National Assembly.
Moro, in turn, described Akpabio as a leader focused on empowering his people, saying, “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, lauded the empowerment programme as “mega, marvellous, and magnificent.”
The event was attended by notable figures, including Petroleum Resources (Gas) Minister Obongemem Ekperikpo Ekpo, Senator Ita Enang, Senator Ekong Sampson, and paramount rulers of Ikot Ekpene and Essien Udim.
Akpabio concluded by emphasising collective efforts toward building a better Nigeria and assured his constituents of continued representation and development-focused initiatives.