By Abbanobi-Eku Onyekachi, Abuja
Senate President Godswill Akpabio has praised President Bola Tinubu as a key figure in Nigeria’s democratic journey and a courageous leader who has taken bold decisions to steer the nation forward.
Akpabio made the commendation during a joint sitting of the National Assembly, where Tinubu addressed the nation as part of the 2025 Democracy Day celebration.
Highlighting Tinubu’s transformative approach to governance, citing notable reforms such as: Unification of the exchange rate, increasing transparency and stability in the foreign exchange market; Promoting local government autonomy aiming to enhance governance and development at the grassroots level; formation of regional development commissions to drive economic growth and development across different regions; and establishment of the Nigerian Education Loan Fund by providing students with access to affordable loans, promoting education and human capital development.
Akpabio commended Tinubu’s boldness, vision, and unwavering belief in Nigeria’s future. He described Tinubu as a great democrat who suffered personal losses for democracy to thrive in Nigeria, highlighting his role in the National Democratic Coalition (NADECO) and his courage in standing up for democracy during difficult times.
Akpabio also highlighted the achievements of the 10th National Assembly, including: Passing 96 bills, with 52 assented to by the President, translating into enforceable laws that will shape governance, economic development, and national security; Senate having acted decisively on 26 Executive Bills, showcasing a healthy balance of cooperation and oversight in its engagement with the executive arm.
Recalled that President Tinubu conferred national honours on dozens of distinguished Nigerians, including posthumous awards for late pro-democracy activists, politicians, journalists, and civil rights leaders. The honourees were described as “heroes and heroines of democracy,” and the awards serve as a tribute to their sacrifices in the struggle to entrench and sustain democracy in Nigeria.
