Akpabio: Tinubu took charge of Nigeria on ‘life support’

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Senate President Godswill Akpabio has described Nigeria’s condition as being “on life support” when President Bola Tinubu assumed office in May 2023.

Akpabio, who spoke at at his 2024 Constituency Briefing and Empowerment Programme in Ikot Ekpene urged Nigerians, particularly his constituents in Akwa Ibom State, to rally behind Tinubu as he implements critical economic reforms to stabilize the nation.

Reflecting on the state of the economy inherited by Tinubu, Akpabio recounted a conversation with the president: “When Asiwaju Bola Tinubu took over, Nigeria was on life support. I asked him, ‘Are you still excited about being president after seeing the economy left behind?’ He responded, ‘I didn’t know it was this bad.’”

He expressed confidence in Tinubu’s reforms, including the removal of fuel subsidies, the floating of the naira, and the introduction of new tax policies, stating that although painful, they are essential for long-term growth.

Akpabio encouraged beneficiaries of his empowerment programme to use the tools provided to uplift their families, cautioning against selling them for short-term gains.

Akpabio praised Akwa Ibom Governor Umo Eno for fostering peace and unity in the state.

He also acknowledged the governor’s goodwill during the Christmas season, which included distributing 1,000 bags of rice to the APC family and announced his contribution of 1,500 additional bags to the PDP State Chairman.

Additionally, the Senate President commended Senate Minority Leader Senator Abba Moro for promoting constructive opposition in the legislature and Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong, Chairman of the Senate Committee on NDDC, for supporting transformative initiatives.

Furthermore, Akpabio emphasised the need for collective effort to build a stronger Nigeria and assured constituents of his continued commitment to delivering impactful development projects.