By Solomon OKPO
IKOT EKPENE, Senate President 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.
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.
In a statement released by his Special Assistant on Media and Communication, Anietie Ekong, 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.”
He 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.
Representing President Bola Tinubu, 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.
Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, in his remarks, commended the Catholic Church for its historic role in promoting justice, democracy, and human dignity across the world. He noted that his government has rolled out several programmes targeting poverty alleviation and support for vulnerable citizens, while calling for sustained collaboration with the Church in delivering people-centered governance.
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.
