President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu has assured Nigerians that the nation have gone passed its most challenging economic period while stepping forward into a time of growth.
Tinubu who was represented by the Vice President, Senator Kashim Shettima gave the assurance at the inauguration ceremony of the new Edo State Governor and his deputy, Senator Monday Okpebholo and Rt. Hon Dennis Idahosa on Tuesday.
He struck an optimistic tone about the nation’s economic trajectory, saying Nigeria has already overcome its most challenging period. “We have weathered the hardest days as a nation. We’ve pulled back from the brink of economic collapse, and now we step forward into a time of growth”.
Tinubu who extended his heartfelt congratulations to the newly sworn in Governor, urged him to diligently work to enhance the living standards of the people of Edo State and make a significant impact during his tenure.
Following Okpebholo’s triumph in the state governorship election held on September 21, 2024, on Tuesday 12th of November, he officially took over from former Governor Godwin Obaseki.
While reflecting on the transition, the President noted that after eight years under Obaseki’s administration, Edo is rejoining the ranks of the All Progressives Congress.
Tinubu emphasised the importance of Governor Okpebholo justifying the confidence placed in him and the APC while fostering true democracy and effective governance in the state.He encouraged Okpebholo to empower the Legislature and other vital government institutions throughout his administration, underscoring that a robust and independent legislature is essential for achieving democratic good governance.
Expressing concerns, the President lamented the previous administration’s attempts to undermine the legislative branch, which hindered its effectiveness for much of its tenure.
Additionally, Tinubu commended the Independent National Electoral Commission for the successful conduct of the Edo Guber Election and encouraged the Commission to strive for even greater excellence in the upcoming Ondo Governorship Election, scheduled for November 16, 2024.
The President who celebrated this milestone as a new chapter in Edo State’s democratic journey, rejoiced with the people of Edo for this momentous occasion.Also, Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has congratulated the newly sworn in Governor of Edo State, describing his assumption into office as the beginning of a new chapter in Edo State.
Sanwo-Olu, who is the Chairman of South-West Governors Forum, urged people of Edo State at home and in the diaspora to rally around the new Governor for the development and growth of the State.
In a statement issued on Tuesday by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr. Gboyega Akosile, Lagos Governor wished Okpebholo and his deputy, Hon. Dennis Idahosa, a very successful tenure.He said, “It gives me great pleasure today to be in Benin for the inauguration of Senator Monday Okpebholo as the new Governor of Edo State. I believe that his assumption into office will mark the beginning of a new chapter in Edo State.
He added, “Looking at his track records, I am convinced Governor Okpebholo will justify the confidence the great people of Edo State reposed in him with greater performance in office, and I wish him a very successful tenure.
“I believe that Governor Okpebholo has the heart to transform Edo State. He has the heart to touch the lives of the people and make life meaningful for the people of Edo State”, the Governor said.
Sanwo-Olu, who attended Okpebholo’s inauguration ceremony held at Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium in Benin, also reassured his Edo counterpart of necessary support to make the best of his time as a governor.
