Senate President Godswill Akpabio has praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for transforming Nigeria from what he described as a “decayed nation” into a country now filled with hope and renewed possibilities.
Akpabio gave the commendation on Wednesday during a joint session of the National Assembly as part of the Democracy Day celebrations.
He praised Tinubu’s leadership, highlighting his role as a long-time fighter for democracy who has now risen to lead the nation.
He said Tinubu’s appearance at the National Assembly was more than a routine constitutional function but a reminder of the sacrifices and struggles that paved the way for Nigeria’s democratic system.
“The National Assembly remains the bastion of democracy in any nation. Your presence here rekindles the memory of a long and courageous journey marked by struggles, sacrifices, and an unusual belief in the ideals of democracy,” Akpabio said.
Addressing Tinubu as “our president, our compatriot, and one of our own as a distinguished Senator forever,” Akpabio stated that the legislature was proud to host a president who played a crucial role in shaping Nigeria’s democratic foundation.
“This chamber honors you not barely as the president of Nigeria, but as one of the architects of the very democratic foundation that we commit to today,” he added.
He further noted that Democracy Day goes beyond celebrating political leaders, emphasizing that it belongs to the Nigerian people who have consistently chosen democracy over violence and dictatorship.
“We gather not to mourn injustice, but to honor resilience. We observe not the triumph of politicians, but the enduring faith of the Nigerian people in democracy — a faith that survives betrayal, braved tear gas, defied amputation, endured silence, and chose the ballot over the bullet,” Akpabio said.
