By Ismaeel Aleem
Senate President Godswill Akpabio has called on Nigerians to remain patient with President Bola Tinubu’s administration, assuring that its economic reforms will soon yield prosperity.
Speaking at the Second Plenary Meeting of the Catholic Bishops Conference of Nigeria in Ikot Ekpene, Akwa Ibom State, Akpabio likened Nigeria’s transformation to building a cathedral, urging citizens not to despair despite current challenges.
“Let us renew hope in the Nigerian enterprise,” Akpabio said, as quoted by his Special Assistant on Media, Anietie Ekong.
“A nation is not raised overnight, but stone by stone, prayer by prayer, hand by hand.”
He encouraged unity between Church and State to overcome division and cynicism, envisioning a brighter future for Nigeria’s children.
Representing President Tinubu, Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to stabilising the economy and attracting investment.
“We are building a Nigeria that works for all,” Akume stated, highlighting social investment programmes designed to support all citizens.
He urged the Church to continue backing the government’s efforts.
Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, praised the Catholic Church’s global role in promoting justice and democracy.
He outlined his administration’s initiatives to alleviate poverty and improve living conditions for the vulnerable, calling for sustained Church support to deliver democratic dividends.
The conference, attended by the Apostolic Nuncio, Most Rev. Michael Francis Crotty, Catholic Bishops, National Assembly members, and other dignitaries, underscored the Church’s influence in shaping Nigeria’s socio-political landscape.
Notable senators present included Ede Dafinone, Victor Umeh, Simon Lalong, and Ireti Kingibe, among others.
