Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, have called on Nigerians to remain patient with President Bola Tinubu’s administration, assuring citizens that ongoing economic and political reforms, though challenging, will lead to long-term prosperity. The appeal was made during the Second Plenary Meeting of the Catholic Bishops Conference of Nigeria in Ikot Ekpene, Akwa Ibom State, according to a statement by Anietie Ekong, Special Assistant to the Senate President on Media/Communication.
The call comes amid growing concerns over rising poverty levels, triggered by reforms such as the removal of the fuel subsidy on May 29, 2023. Since then, petrol prices have surged over threefold, food inflation has exceeded 35%, and the naira has faced significant volatility against the dollar.
Addressing the gathering, Akpabio likened Nigeria’s transformation to building a cathedral, emphasizing the need for time, sacrifice, and resilience. “Do not despair when the winds blow strongly or the scaffolding shakes,” he urged, encouraging Nigerians to “renew hope in the Nigerian enterprise” and work together across societal divides toward a brighter future.
Representing President Tinubu, Akume echoed these sentiments, reaffirming the administration’s commitment to stabilizing the economy, attracting investments, and mitigating the reforms’ impact. “We have taken bold steps to implement reforms that will bring enduring benefits,” he said, while calling on the Church to support the government’s social investment programs aimed at ensuring inclusivity.
Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, also spoke at the event, commending the Catholic Church’s historical role in advocating for justice and democracy. He highlighted his administration’s efforts to combat poverty and enhance welfare for vulnerable citizens.
The plenary, attended by the Apostolic Nuncio, Most Rev. Michael Francis Crotty, Catholic bishops, federal lawmakers, state officials, and hundreds of worshippers, provided a platform for leaders to seek the Church’s partnership in navigating Nigeria’s most significant economic challenges in decades.
