Tinubu’s achievements’ll guarantee him re-election – Akpabio

From Adesuwa Tsan, Abuja

Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, has expressed confidence that President Bola Tinubu would secure a second term in 2027, saying the All Progressives Congress (APC) has enough achievements to take to Nigerians during the campaigns.

He also commended the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, for his contribution to peace, national unity and peaceful coexistence as the Islamic leader marked his 70th birthday.

Akpabio spoke on the two issues in separate messages on Monday.

Receiving members of the Senate Committee on Tertiary Institutions, TETFUND and NELFUND, led by its Chairman, Dandutse Mohammed, at his residence in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, he said the Tinubu administration had recorded achievements in the economy, agriculture, security, education and fiscal policy.

He said the administration inherited a difficult economic situation, noting that 27 states were unable to pay salaries and pensions when Tinubu assumed office. “The current President has done a lot for Nigerians. He met an economy in shambles. When he came in, 27 states could not pay salaries and pensions but today, the story has changed because of his reengineering and thinking out of the box.” Akpabio noted that the achievements of the administration would form part of the APC’s campaign message in 2027, expressing confidence that Nigerians would re-elect Tinubu.

“We will have something to tell Nigerians about the unprecedented achievements of Mr President at the campaign grounds,” he said.

Akpabio also listed the 10th Senate’s legislative achievements, saying the chamber under his leadership had made “giant strides” and would continue to collaborate with the executive to deliver more benefits to Nigerians.

He urged senators, who may not return to the 11th Senate to remain committed to the party and the success of the Tinubu administration.

On the Sultan’s 70th birthday, he described the monarch as an exemplary statesman, whose leadership had been defined by service, wisdom, faith and commitment to Nigeria’s peace and unity.

He said the Sultan had built bridges across the country’s diverse communities and played an influential role in promoting interfaith dialogue, peaceful coexistence and national reconciliation.

“Your reign as the Sultan of Sokoto has been defined by grace, statesmanship and an unwavering commitment to peace, unity and national cohesion. At 70, you remain a father to all and a moral compass for our nation,” Akpabio said.

He further described the Sultan’s voice of moderation and wisdom as invaluable at a time Nigeria needed greater understanding, tolerance and unity.

Akpabio, who congratulated the Sultan on behalf of his family, constituents and the 10th Senate, prayed for many more years of good health, wisdom and strength for the monarch to continue his service to the Muslim Ummah and the Federal Republic of Nigeria.