Senate President Godswill Akpabio and the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, have appealed to Nigerians to be patient with President Bola Tinubu’s administration, assuring that ongoing reforms will eventually deliver prosperity despite current hardships.
Their remarks were contained in a statement issued on Sunday by the Special Assistant on Media and Communication to the Senate President, Anietie Ekong.
The appeal comes amid rising concerns over deepening poverty across the country. Since Tinubu ended fuel subsidy on May 29, 2023, petrol prices have more than tripled, food inflation has climbed above 35 percent, and the naira has recorded a volatile decline against the dollar.
Speaking at the Second Plenary Meeting of the Catholic Bishops Conference of Nigeria in Ikot Ekpene, Akpabio acknowledged the difficulties but likened the reform process to constructing a cathedral, which requires time, sacrifice, and resilience.
“Let me seize this opportunity to urge my compatriots to be patient with your government as we lay the foundations of this house again. Do not despair when the winds blow strongly 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,” Akpabio said.
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He called on Nigerians to renew their faith in the country, stressing that unity and perseverance were key to overcoming current challenges.
SGF Akume, who represented President Tinubu at the Catholic bishops’ plenary, echoed similar sentiments, assuring that government was committed to stabilising the economy and cushioning the impact of reforms.
“This administration came into office with a firm commitment to renew hope, strengthen our democratic institutions, and build a Nigeria that works for all. We have taken bold steps to stabilise the economy, attract investment, and implement reforms that will bring enduring benefits to our country,” he stated.
Both leaders urged Nigerians to embrace hope, unity, and cooperation with government as reforms continue to unfold.