President Bola Tinubu declared on Friday that he is in office not for personal gain but to serve the nation. Emphasizing his administration’s commitment to delivering tangible results, he highlighted efforts in improving infrastructure, food and energy security, education, and fostering long-term economic stability.
“I didn’t come to look for money and exploit the situation; I came to work. I asked for the votes, and Nigerians gave them to me,” Tinubu stated during a meeting with the Forum of Former Presiding Officers of the National Assembly, led by former Senate President Ken Nnamani, at the Aso Rock Villa in Abuja.
Bayo Onanuga, the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, released a statement detailing the discussions titled, “I Didn’t Come to Look for Money, I Came to Work.” on his X account
The meeting was attended by 16 former presiding officers, including former senate presidents, speakers of the House of Representatives, and deputy leaders. Tinubu expressed gratitude for their support, urging continued unity across party lines to achieve national development goals.
He acknowledged the complexities of legislative processes and nation-building, asserting that Nigeria can progress through collaboration and inclusivity.
“Regardless of past party differences and current difficulties, you still believe in me and our plans for this country. Thank you; no one can do this better than us. I have traveled globally and seen how developed nations achieve success through collaboration and inclusive financial structures,” he said.
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Addressing ongoing challenges, he noted, “Yes, there is hardship, but how did we get here? We neglected our communities, the very foundation of our prosperity. We must provide decent living standards and educational environments for our children. The low school enrollment rates reflect our failure to encourage education.”
Tinubu reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to improving infrastructure, ensuring financial compliance, exploring alternative energy sources, and providing energy security. “We have come a long way, and I promise we will do our best,” he stated.
He urged the former presiding officers to share their expertise in governance and nation-building, as they hold unique insights into Nigeria’s current situation.
Senator Nnamani, speaking on behalf of the delegation, expressed strong support for Tinubu’s administration in addressing Nigeria’s pressing issues. He noted that the meeting marked the President’s first official engagement with the group since taking office.
“Mr. President, history is not the burden of one man alone, but some are called to face its challenges. It is your responsibility to tackle the pervasive insecurity, economic downturn, infrastructural decay, and other national crises,” Nnamani said.
He expressed confidence in Tinubu’s experience to overcome these challenges and praised his commitment to local government autonomy, which has garnered respect from both supporters and critics.
Nnamani pledged the group’s support in restoring national security, building a functioning economy, and strengthening unity among Nigeria’s diverse population. He commended Tinubu for trusting some members with critical national roles, acknowledging their importance in nation-building.
President Tinubu: “I didn’t come to look for money and exploit the situation; I came to work. I asked for the votes, and Nigerians gave them to me” pic.twitter.com/MCCC2Lswhg
— Bayo Onanuga (@aonanuga1956) September 20, 2024
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