Nigerian President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reassured Nigerians of preparedness to work for the betterment of the nation rather than for his selfish gains.
President Tinubu stated this while addressing the Forum of former presiding officers of the National Assembly at the State House, Abuja on Friday. He emphasized that his Presidency is driven by a desire to serve, not wealth accumulation.
Tinubu also used the occasion to assure Nigerians that his administration is focused on delivering tangible results. And in making a positive difference in the nation’s infrastructure, food and energy security, education and long-term economic stability.
This was contained in a statement issued by the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga.
Tinubu said “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.”
The Nation reports that the meeting was attended by 16 former presiding officers. Including former Senate Presidents, former Speakers of the House of Representatives and former Deputy Senate Presidents. Also in attendance was former Deputy Speakers of the House of Representatives.
Speaking at the event, Tinubu acknowledged the support and encouragement from the Forum members. This, he said, is irrespective of party affiliations. He, however, implored them to continue fostering unity and camaraderie to achieve national development goals.
Reflecting on the complex nature of legislative activities, constitutional reviews, and nation-building processes, the President expressed confidence that Nigeria can progress through collaboration and inclusiveness.
He said, “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. I have travelled the world and seen how developed countries have done it for themselves through collaboration, inclusiveness and financial structure.
“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. And we forgot even to give them a good standard of living.
“We forgot to educate our children. Go round and look at the dilapidated schools. The education environment must be decent enough for pupils to want to learn.
“We can complain from now till eternity that the school enrolment is low. But did we do anything to encourage the enrolment process? We must ask ourselves because it is a matter of conscience,” Tinubu said.
Tinubu also used the occasion and outlined his administration’s focus on addressing these challenges. These, he said, included improving infrastructure and ensuring compliance with financial regulations. Exploring alternative energy sources and providing energy security.
He said, “We have come a long way, and I promise we must do our best.”
The President, therefore, urged the former presiding officers to continue sharing their wealth of experience in nation-building and governance. He emphasized that they were uniquely positioned to provide “clear interpretations of where we are” to Nigerians.
Speaking on behalf of the Forum, former Senate President, Kenneth Nnamani, expressed full support for President Tinubu’s administration. He praised the President’s efforts to addressing Nigeria’s pressing challenges.
The Senate President noted that the meeting was the President’s first official engagement with the group since his assumption of office. Nnamani, therefore, congratulated Tinubu for becoming President of Nigeria.
He said, “Mr. President, history has never been the burden of one man alone. But some are called to meet a special share of its challenges.
“Though not of your creation, it has fallen onto you to end the pervasive insecurity across the nation. The economic downturn that has resulted in hunger and anger and infrastructural decay due to years of neglect. And myriads of other national challenges.
“As difficult as these problems are, we believe that with your experience, you can face the difficulties and surmount them.
“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.
“We are convinced that you will dig in deeper again to eradicate these problems. And to restore Nigerians’ pride of place among the comity of nations.”
Nnamani added that the Forum has seen what elite complacency has caused nations. And, therefore, has resolved to unite across all divides to render whatever assistance it may be called upon to contribute to nation-building. And ensuring enduring prosperity for our citizens.
“It is in this light and in the national interest that we wish to pledge our support. As you work to restore national security and build an economy that works for all. And strengthening the bond of unity amongst our disparate peoples,” he said.
Nnamani also commended President Tinubu for his trust in appointing some of their members to critical national positions. Thus, recognizing their vital role in nation-building.
source: The Nation
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