President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, has expressed deep appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for signing into law the bills establishing three significant federal tertiary institutions in the South-East region, describing the move as a bold step toward inclusive governance and regional development.
Akpabio, in a statement issued through his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Eseme Eyiboh, on Wednesday, praised the President for demonstrating commitment to national unity and educational advancement through the assent to the bills. The newly approved institutions include the Federal University, Okigwe in Imo State; the Federal University of Medical and Health Sciences, Bende; and the Federal College of Education, also located in Bende, Abia State.
The Senate President noted that the establishment of these institutions represents a significant milestone in addressing the educational and healthcare gaps in the South-East. He emphasized that the universities will not only offer high-quality academic and research opportunities but also enhance access to healthcare, particularly through the medical and health sciences university.
He extended commendations to key National Assembly members who played vital roles in the legislative process, particularly the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Benjamin Kalu, who sponsored two of the bills. Others acknowledged include Deputy Whip of the Senate, Senator Onyekachi Nwebonyi; Deputy Minority Whip, Senator Osita Ngwu; and Senator Patrick Ndubueze, who sponsored the bill for the establishment of the Federal University, Okigwe.
Akpabio praised their dedication and effective representation, which he said reflects a deep commitment to the welfare and progress of their constituencies. He stated that the creation of these institutions is a clear response to the yearnings of the people of the South-East for greater inclusion and investment in infrastructure and human capital.
According to Akpabio, President Tinubu’s action is a powerful gesture of reconciliation and trust-building, particularly given the historical grievances of the region. “I applaud President Tinubu for his inclusive leadership and demonstrated commitment to the development of the South-East region and efforts to heal the deep-seated wounds of the past. The establishment of these institutions will go a long way to remove the nagging feelings of distrust and socio-economic marginalization among the people of the South-East,” he stated.
He further commended the unity of purpose displayed by stakeholders in both chambers of the National Assembly who supported the passage of the bills, urging them to remain resolute in promoting the Renewed Hope Agenda.
“I commend the President for his open-heartedness and unrestrained affection for the region. The significant support of leaders and lawmakers in ensuring the passage of these very important bills establishing these institutions is noteworthy and commendable. I call on the great Ndigbo people to continue to key into the Renewed Hope Agenda of the present administration and position for strategic and progressive alliance with President Bola Tinubu,” Akpabio added.
The Senate President assured that sustained collaboration and support for the Tinubu administration by the South-East will bring about more dividends of democracy and drive national development that leaves no region behind.
