By Israel Bulus, Kaduna
The Arewa Youth Consultative Movement (AYCM) has passed a vote of confidence on President Bola Tinubu and Senate President Godswill Akpabio.
At a press briefing, the National President, Comrade Kabiru Yusuf, praised President Tinubu for his significant accomplishments in human capacity development and infrastructural enhancement in Nigeria.
He stated that President Bola Tinubu and Senate President Godswill Akpabio have made monumental achievements geared towards economic recovery and the promotion of unity and peaceful coexistence in the country.
Kabiru highlighted that the Coastal Superhighway Initiative, the South East Development Commission, the NYSC Trust Fund, and the Student Loan Scheme stand as tangible testaments to the forward-thinking leadership of President Tinubu’s administration under the Renewed Hope Agenda.
“Despite facing economic challenges, his administration has adeptly navigated the country’s affairs without accruing excessive debt, a departure from past administrations’ practices,” he added.
“We boldly declare that President Bola Tinubu remains resolute in forging collaboration and engagement with all stakeholders, including the youth, to realize the vision of a prosperous Nigeria.”
He also pointed out that the ongoing refurbishment of the three refineries underscores the government’s commitment to ensuring efficient domestic petroleum supply and meeting the nation’s energy needs.
Kabiru implored the youth, women, and men to exercise patience and solidarity with the government as they collectively work towards a better Nigeria.
The group maintained that Senate President Godswill Akpabio has been commended for his articulate and proactive leadership in the National Assembly. During his tenure in the 10th Assembly, several people-centric bills and initiatives, such as the Student Loan Bill and the NYSC Trust Fund Bill, were passed, significantly impacting youth empowerment.
“In just one month in office (December 2023), Senator Godswill Akpabio passed the budget for 2024 within record time, a feat that none of his predecessors were able to achieve.”
The group also noted that the collaborative efforts and transparency in engaging stakeholders have been particularly noteworthy, alongside the innovative legislative processes introduced to enhance efficiency and effectiveness.
They disclosed that under Senator Akpabio’s leadership, 25 bills have been passed into law, and 115 resolutions have been adopted, all aimed at driving Nigeria’s socio-economic development, national cohesion, growth, and security stability.
“The synergy between the Senate and the executive branch has never been this cordial, not even during the tenure of Senator David Mark (2007-2015), the longest-serving Senate President.”
“Senator Akpabio’s crucial role in facilitating governance and promoting national development is vital in seeing Nigeria as one indivisible nation.”
Looking ahead, the group emphasized that leaders must prioritize the welfare of the people and foster unity, peace, and good governance to ensure sustainable progress in Nigeria.
The call by some in the North for Senator Akpabio to resign, despite his impactful legacy, was described as cross-prejudicial and unhealthy for the polity.
“The prevailing indicators suggest that Southern leaders in positions of authority are committed to shaping a brighter future for Nigeria’s youth and the generations to come.”
The group urged solidarity and endorsement of President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and Senator Akpabio’s leadership in the National Assembly.
The group condemned in strong terms the call by some sections of the North for the resignation of performing leaders simply because they are Southerners, stressing that they do not and will never support such actions.
“We call for the support of one united, indivisible Nigeria, with President Bola Tinubu and Senator Godswill Akpabio working together for executive and legislative synergy, alongside a pragmatic judiciary, to salvage Nigeria and secure a better future for all.”
