The President’s wife, Oluremi Tinubu, state governors, senators, members of the House of Representatives, traditional rulers, and other distinguished Nigerians have expressed heartfelt tributes to Senate President Senator Godswill Akpabio.
Addressing the audience at a grand reception held at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo, Akwa Ibom state, to commemorate the 61st birthday of the Senate President, Mrs. Tinubu lauded Akpabio as an exceptional democrat.
She emphasized that the gathering served not only as a celebration of his birthday but also as an opportunity to contemplate Akpabio’s significant contributions to the advancement of democracy and his developmental achievements during his tenure as governor.
She said: “It is my pleasure to celebrate the 61st birthday of the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio. This is an opportunity to reflect on his contributions to Akwa Ibom and Nigeria.”
“Under his leadership Akwa Ibom state witnessed improved infrastructure and human capital development. He has displayed exemplary leadership as Senate President. He is committed to good governance and accountability.”’
In a goodwill message, Speaker Tajudeen Abbas expressed the House of Representatives’ pride in aligning with the Senate President, citing his dedication and loyalty to enhancing the country through legislation centered on the welfare of the people.
The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Abdullahi Ganduje, extended congratulations to Akpabio for earning the admiration and respect of both Akwa Ibom residents and Nigerians nationwide.
Ganduje acknowledged Akpabio’s impactful projects and lasting legacy, asserting that they contribute to the enduring affection of Akwa Ibom people, and he expressed contentment with Akpabio’s leadership of the 10th Senate.
Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom described Akpabio as a valuable asset to the state and Nigeria. He affirmed the commitment of his administration to collaborate with the Senate President in attracting development to the state.
Eno referred to President Bola Tinubu as the patriarch of the nation and expressed gratitude for his support in endorsing Akpabio for the position of Senate President.
The Governor of Cross River State, Senator Bassey Otu, serving as the Chairman of the occasion, emphasized Akpabio’s irreplaceable role in the progress of Akwa Ibom state.
Otu pledged collaboration with Governor Eno to address and resolve all boundary disputes between Akwa Ibom and Cross River states.
During the celebration, Sen. Akpabio expressed appreciation to all the attendees for honoring him. He conveyed his overwhelming feelings about the diverse representation from various spheres of life.
Akpabio urged Nigerians to remain hopeful as the senate would work hard with the Executive to turn around the fortunes the Nigeria.
He said: “There is hope for Nigeria under the leadership of President Bola Tinubu in spite of the economic crisis facing the nation.”