December 31, (THEWILL) – Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio, has emphasized that the establishment of regional commissions by President Bola Tinubu is a strategic move to foster development and empower citizens across Nigeria.
Akpabio made this assertion during his Constituency Briefing and Empowerment program held in Ikot Ekpene, Akwa Ibom State.
He noted that Tinubu’s administration has been consistent in implementing impactful constituency projects, touching lives nationwide.
The Senate President urged Nigerians to exercise patience as Tinubu works to revitalize the nation’s economy and address challenges affecting all regions.
“Nigeria was on life support before President Tinubu assumed office in 2023. Despite inheriting an ailing economy, the President has shown determination to fix the situation. He succeeded in Lagos, and I believe he will do the same for Nigeria. Let us give him time to take us to our El Dorado,” Akpabio said.
Akpabio disclosed that Tinubu has demonstrated goodwill towards the South East by signing the South East Development Commission into law and allocating critical ministries based on necessity rather than political considerations.
“The President has shown love to the South East. Beyond signing the South East Development Commission into law, he also allocated key ministries like the Ministry of Works. This decision was made based on the ecological challenges and poor infrastructure in the region, similar to issues in the South-South,” he stated.
He further highlighted the strategic significance of Akwa Ibom’s natural gas reserves, emphasizing Tinubu’s recognition of the state’s contributions to national development.
“Akwa Ibom sits on vast gas reserves from Utapete to Ibeno. The President has acknowledged our importance by allowing our state to produce the Senate President, a position we last held in 1979. President Tinubu deserves our unwavering support,” Akpabio added.
During the event, Akpabio distributed various empowerment items, including motorcycles, tricycles, mini-buses, sewing machines, deep freezers, and N200,000 cash grants to 2,000 undergraduates. He revealed that the initiative, supported by Tinubu, was a way of appreciating the electorate for their support.
Acknowledging Akwa Ibom Governor Umo Eno’s peaceful leadership, Akpabio commended the governor’s bipartisan approach and announced a reciprocal gesture.
“Governor Umo Eno’s commitment to peace and unity is commendable. During Christmas, he sent 1,000 bags of rice to APC members. To reciprocate, I have directed that 1,500 bags of rice be sent to PDP members through their chairman immediately,” Akpabio stated.
He urged beneficiaries to make good use of the empowerment items, adding, “We are reaching all local governments.
From Keke Napep and generating sets to sewing machines and makeup kits, these items are designed to uplift lives and support businesses. Use them wisely.”
