President Bola Tinubu has pledged that Nigeria’s democracy will endure despite challenges, emphasizing his administration’s determination to strengthen the nation. He made the statement while hosting a delegation from Enugu State, led by Governor Peter Mbah, at the State House in Abuja.
Tinubu praised Governor Mbah’s leadership, noting progress in security, healthcare, education, and infrastructure. He assured the delegation that his government would continue to pursue reforms aimed at building a resilient economy and a brighter future for citizens.
The President dismissed critics, insisting that his focus remains on delivering results. “Democracy will survive despite intimidation. Ignore the naysayers. Stay focused. We are committed to building a nation of bright hope for our children,” he said.
Tinubu criticized past administrations for failed electricity privatization, arguing that his government is working to correct those shortcomings. He stressed that reforms, though difficult, are producing tangible results across states.
He commended governors for effectively using federal allocations to improve public services. According to him, testimonies of growth from different regions confirm the impact of ongoing economic reforms. Tinubu highlighted Enugu’s alignment with the ruling party as evidence of federal support translating into local development.
The President assured continued collaboration on key projects, including the Port Harcourt–Enugu railway line and power sector reforms. He described infrastructure as the backbone of economic growth and promised more investment in long-term development.
Tinubu acknowledged that funding challenges for major projects had been addressed through additional financial support to states. He also expressed appreciation for governors from opposition parties who have recognized the benefits of federal partnerships, noting that many now cooperate closely with the central government.
He urged leaders to extend reforms to local governments, stressing that national progress requires collective effort at all levels. “It’s not a one-person show. It’s a collective effort at the subnational and local government levels. Please do more for the local government,” he said.
Governor Mbah, in his remarks, expressed gratitude for the President’s support and vision. He described the visit as symbolic of shared commitment to Nigeria’s future. Mbah highlighted landmark projects inaugurated during Tinubu’s January visit to Enugu, noting their impact on socio-economic development.
He praised Tinubu for bridging political divides and investing in Enugu despite the state’s past electoral stance. “Mr President, you are a true friend of Enugu State. You broke a long-standing political distance between this region and the federal government, crossing party lines, at a time when the Enugu electorate did not favour your party,” Mbah said.
The governor assured Tinubu of Enugu’s support in the 2027 elections, stating that the relationship has earned the trust of the state’s population. He emphasized that over seven million residents stand behind the President’s vision.
Former Senate President Ken Nnamani also spoke, thanking Tinubu for his backing of Enugu and the wider South East, particularly in infrastructure. He credited Governor Mbah’s achievements to federal support and pledged continued loyalty to the President.
The delegation included senior officials and prominent figures such as Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology Dr. Kingsley Tochukwu Udeh, Chief of Air Staff Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, former Chief of Naval Staff Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla, and former Governors Sullivan Chime and Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi. Former Governor of old Anambra State Jim Nwobodo, members of the National Assembly, traditional rulers, religious leaders, academics, and their spouses also joined the visit.
Tinubu closed his remarks by reaffirming his administration’s commitment to building a nation that future generations can be proud of. He emphasized that Nigeria is on the right path to becoming a leading African nation, driven by reforms and collective leadership.
