PORT HARCOURT – President Bola Tinubu has asserted that Nigeria is now on an unstoppable trajectory toward economic prosperity, maintaining that his government has halted decades of economic decline and initiated a fresh chapter of growth.
Speaking at the Presidential Campaign Rally in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, on Saturday, Tinubu proclaimed the nation had entered a golden era of prosperity, vowing that the achievements under his leadership would be preserved and expanded.
“We are moving toward prosperity. I guarantee you, we’ve begun the golden age. Prosperity has arrived.”
“This advancement has no going back,” declared the President.
He urged Nigerian youth to actively engage in the 2027 general election, emphasizing that the results would shape their future and economic opportunities.
“To the young people of Nigeria, this election is about you—it’s not about me. Your future hinges on this vote.”
“It’s up to you to wield your tools, and that tool is your PVC. If you haven’t collected yours yet, please do so immediately.”
“The way to fight poverty is by electing leaders committed to driving aggressive economic development. That’s exactly what I am doing,” Tinubu stated.
The President, defending his administration’s economic strategies, noted that 27 of the federation’s 36 states were unable to disburse workers’ salaries upon his assumption of office in 2023.
He emphasized that conditions have since improved due to reforms implemented by his government, stating that reversing the downward economic trend has rekindled hope for households reliant on monthly wages.
“Upon taking office, 27 out of 36 states couldn’t pay salaries. You understand what that implies—families depending on those incomes. For every salary recipient, there’s a dependent, someone sharing meals at home.”
“But we’ve halted the decline. We’re moving toward a future of prosperity,” he declared.
Tinubu also criticized the African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential candidate, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, casting doubt on his ethical fitness to lead the nation.
He accused the former Vice President of contributing to Nigeria’s economic woes and alleged that public funds were misappropriated to fund his private university.
The President further acknowledged the support he received from people in Rivers State during the 2023 election, expressing his intention to return seeking their backing for a second term.
“I’m here to say thank you, thank you on behalf of the APC. Your response was outstanding. Thank you for your support in the 2022/2023 election.”
At that moment, I appeared utterly defeated, yet you rallied behind me and entrusted me with your authority. That mandate continues to guide my leadership today and empowers me to drive meaningful change. I am deeply grateful.
“Once more, I come back to express my thanks and to ask for your backing in securing a second term,” he declared.
He also praised the citizens of Rivers State for their vital role in supporting his administration, especially highlighting FCT Minister Nyesom Wike as a key partner in development efforts.
Tinubu emphasized that advancing the education, welfare, and vocational training of Nigerian youth remains a top priority for his government.
The President commended Rivers State Governor Sir Siminalayi Fubara for demonstrating wisdom, restraint, and respect for senior figures during the recent political turmoil in the state.
He recalled the Federal Government’s involvement in resolving the crisis, noting that the governor’s willingness to accept the intervention and uphold peace was praiseworthy.
“When we stepped in, you acknowledged our stance. You preserved stability. You’ll never regret your choices as long as any of us remain,” Tinubu assured Fubara.
In reply, Fubara greeted the President and conveyed gratitude for the federal intervention, stating it played a crucial role in restoring and sustaining peace across Rivers State.
The governor also expressed gratitude to Tinubu for the infrastructure developments undertaken by his administration in the state, as well as for the appointments bestowed upon indigenes of Rivers State.
He pledged the state’s backing in the 2027 presidential election, vowing extensive mobilization efforts to ensure the President’s re-election.
“During a critical juncture for the state, as a father figure, you stepped in personally, making personal sacrifices so that our administration could keep delivering effective governance.”
“Thank you for being there with us during those difficult times.”
“As you stood by us, we will stand by you. As you supported us, Rivers State will stand behind you in your bid to renew your mandate.”
“We will show our gratitude through our votes. We will campaign, organize, and deliver a resounding victory through our collective vote.”
“We will deliver no fewer than three million votes for the President,” Fubara stated.
In another address, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike—also serving as Presidential Campaign Director for Rivers and Abuja—extended a warm welcome to Tinubu on behalf of the people of the state and the political parties within the Rainbow Coalition.
Wike stated that Rivers State had already made its decision to back Tinubu’s campaign for re-election in 2027.
“Rivers State has already committed. By 2027, we will cast our votes for you,” he affirmed.
Previously, the Director-General of the Presidential Campaign Council, Senator Abdulaziz Yari, urged APC leaders in Rivers State to ensure a minimum of 2.8 million votes for Tinubu during the 2027 election.
Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc.Syndigate.info).
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