President Bola Tinubu has assured Nigerians that his administration is dedicated to delivering tangible results and making a positive impact on the nation’s infrastructure, food and energy security, education, and long-term economic stability.
During a meeting with the Forum of Former Presiding Officers of the National Assembly, led by former Senate President Ken Nnamani, the President emphasized that he is not in office for personal gain but to serve the country.
“I didn’t come to look for money and exploit the situation; I came to work. I asked for the votes, and Nigerians gave them to me,” he stated following a session filled with camaraderie and handshakes among former parliamentary colleagues.
The meeting included 16 former presiding officers, comprising former senate presidents, former speakers of the House of Representatives, and former deputy senate presidents and speakers.
President Tinubu acknowledged the support and encouragement from Forum members, regardless of party affiliations, urging them to continue fostering unity for national development.
Reflecting on the complexities of legislative activities and nation-building, the President expressed confidence that Nigeria can progress through collaboration and inclusiveness.
“Regardless of party differences of the past and difficulty of the present, you still believe in me and what we all plan for this country. I thank you very much; no one will do it better than us,” he said.
He also highlighted the need to address systemic issues, stating, “Yes, there is hardship, but how did we get here? What did we do when we had very high crude production? We neglected our communities; we neglected the goose that lays the golden eggs; we forgot even to give them a good standard of living. We forgot to educate our children.”
The President outlined his administration’s priorities, including improving infrastructure, ensuring compliance with financial regulations, exploring alternative energy sources, and enhancing energy security. “We have come a long way, and I promise we must do our best,” he assured.
He called on former presiding officers to share their wealth of experience in governance, noting they are well-positioned to provide “clear interpretations of where we are” to Nigerians.
Senator Nnamani, speaking on behalf of the delegation, expressed full support for President Tinubu’s administration. He remarked that this meeting marked the President’s first official engagement with the group since taking office.
Nnamani acknowledged the challenges facing the country, stating, “Mr. President, history has never been the burden of one man alone, but some are called to meet a special share of its challenges.”
He emphasized the importance of addressing pervasive insecurity and economic downturns and praised the President’s courage in handling local government autonomy issues.
“What gives us more hope is the courage with which you handled the issue of Local government autonomy, which has won you open admiration from friends and foes alike,” he noted.
Nnamani pledged the group’s commitment to contribute to nation-building, stating, “It is in this light and in the national interest that we wish to pledge our support as you work to restore national security, build an economy that works for all, and strengthen the bond of unity among our disparate peoples.”
He also commended the President for trusting some members with critical national positions, recognizing their vital role in nation-building.
