The President of the Senate, Dr Godswill Akpabio has urged Nigerians to exercise patience with the administration of President Bola Tinubu, assuring that the government’s ongoing reforms will eventually translate into economic prosperity and national renewal.
Dr Akpabio made the appeal in his opening remarks as Chairman of the Second Plenary Meeting of the Catholic Bishops Conference of Nigeria, held in Ikot Ekpene, Akwa Ibom State.
The Senate President encouraged citizens not to despair over the current economic challenges, but to remain hopeful for a brighter future.
“Let me seize this opportunity to urge my compatriots to be patient with your government as we lay again the foundations of this house,” Akpabio said. “Do not despair when the winds blow strong or the scaffolding shakes. For a nation is like a mighty cathedral—it is not raised overnight, but stone by stone, prayer by prayer, hand by hand.”
Dr Akpabio emphasized that transformation requires collective effort, quoting scripture to stress the role of faith, unity, and cooperation between Church and State in rebuilding the nation.
President Bola Tinubu, represented by Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to stabilizing the economy, attracting investment, and delivering inclusive governance.
“This administration came into office with a firm commitment to renew hope, strengthen our democratic institutions, and build a Nigeria that works for all,” Akume stated. He appealed to the Church to continue supporting government policies aimed at social investment and national growth.
The Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, urged the Church to remain united in the pursuit of the common good of humanity
Governor Eno commended the commitment of the Catholic Church to humanitarian service, describing it as the single largest non-governmental investor in education, healthcare, and social support across the nation.
Governor Eno noted that the Church has consistently demonstrated living faith in action, praising its immense contributions in uplifting communities beyond the scope of government.
The Governor emphasized that his administration remains committed to people-centered leadership that prioritizes the welfare of all, noting that the interventions reflect a shared mission with the Church – to care for the vulnerable, bring hope to the needy, and ensure no one is left behind.
Governor Eno reaffirmed his administration’s resolve to continue partnering with the Catholic Church and other faith-based organizations in building a compassionate, inclusive, and peaceful society.
The plenary was attended by the Apostolic Nuncio and representative of Pope Francis, Most Rev. Michael Francis Crotty, Catholic Bishops from across Nigeria, members of the National Assembly, political leaders, and worshippers from different parts of the country.
