Senate President and Chairman of the 10th National Assembly, Godswill Akpabio has disclosed that Nigeria was on “life support” when President Bola Tinubu assumed office in May 2023, citing the dire state of the country’s economy at the time.
Speaking at his 2024 Constituency Briefing and Empowerment Programme at the Ikot Ekpene Township Stadium, Akpabio urged Nigerians, especially the people of Akwa Ibom State, to continue supporting President Tinubu’s ongoing efforts to address the country’s economic challenges.
Akpabio, who represents the Akwa Ibom Northwest Senatorial District, emphasized the significant reforms initiated by President Tinubu, including the introduction of new tax policies, the removal of fuel subsidies, and the floating of the naira. These measures, he acknowledged, have been painful but are essential for the nation’s long-term economic sustainability.
In his remarks, Akpabio shared a candid conversation he had with President Tinubu about the state of the economy inherited from the previous administration. “Nigeria was on life support when Asiwaju Bola Tinubu took over. 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,’” Akpabio revealed.
Despite the challenges, Akpabio expressed optimism about the future of Nigeria, citing President Tinubu’s track record of turning around the economy in Lagos State. “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,” he said.
The Senate President also encouraged beneficiaries of the empowerment programme not to sell the items they had received but instead to use them to uplift their families economically. He reassured the crowd that there was enough foodstuff to distribute, emphasizing that the items would also reach other senatorial districts within the state.
In addition, Akpabio praised Governor Umo Eno for promoting peace and inclusivity in Akwa Ibom, stating, “Without peace, there cannot be development.” He commended the governor for embracing all Akwa Ibom people, irrespective of their political affiliations, and noted the governor’s recent gesture of distributing 1,000 bags of rice to the APC family in the state, with an additional 1,500 bags earmarked for the PDP State Chairman.
Akpabio also took a moment to acknowledge Senate Minority Leader, Senator Abba Moro, for fostering unity in the Senate. He lauded the inclusive nature of the Senate, where every member, regardless of party affiliation, has an equal voice. “Opposition is good, but it should be constructive,” he added.
Chairman of the Senate Committee on the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) Asuquo Ekpenyong, described the empowerment programme as “mega, marvelous, and magnificent,” further highlighting the importance of such initiatives in the region.
The event saw the attendance of key political and community leaders, including Obongemem Ekperikpo Ekpo (Minister of Petroleum Resources, Gas), Ita Enang (APC Chieftain), Ekong Sampson (Akwa Ibom South), and the Paramount Rulers of Ikot Ekpene and Essien Udim.
In conclusion, Akpabio reiterated the importance of collective effort in building a stronger Nigeria. He assured his constituents that he would continue to represent their interests and focus on development-oriented initiatives for the betterment of the region.
