On Thursday, President Bola Tinubu urged the Edo State governor-elect, Monday Okpebholo, to make the development of his state a top priority. He assured Okpebholo of the Federal Government’s full support and the backing of the Progressive Governors’ Forum.
This guidance came during a meeting with the leadership of the All Progressives Congress (APC), where Okpebholo and his deputy, Dennis Idahosa, received their certificates of return. The details of the meeting were shared in a statement titled ‘President Tinubu Receives Edo Governor-Elect, Tasks Him on Development,’ released by Tinubu’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga.
In his address, Tinubu stressed the critical importance of good governance and tangible results for the people of Edo State. He told Okpebholo, “Governor-elect, you are now faced with the significant task of advancing development. We are committed to working alongside you. Look at the progressive governors within the APC; they exemplify true progressiveness. Collaborate with them, learn from their experience, and I have full confidence that you are prepared for this challenge.”
Acknowledging the complexities of democratic governance, especially in emerging economies like Nigeria, the President noted, “You have achieved a hard-fought victory. Democracy is particularly challenging in emerging democracies and economies such as ours.”
Tinubu extended his congratulations to Senator Okpebholo and his deputy, praising them as a “good symbol of people chosen by destiny to work together.” He remarked on their journey from rivals to partners as a testament to political understanding and cooperation.
Furthermore, Tinubu highlighted the significance of past experiences and leadership in shaping successful governance. He referred to his own political journey in Kano as a learning experience and acknowledged the contributions of former Edo State governor Senator -, the progressive governors, and the APC leadership in securing a successful outcome in the gubernatorial election in Edo.
