President Bola Tinubu has reaffirmed that Nigeria’s democracy will withstand intimidation and remain on course, as his administration continues efforts to strengthen national development.
The President made this declaration while receiving a high-level delegation from Enugu State, led by Governor Peter Mbah, at the State House in Abuja.
During the meeting, Tinubu praised the Enugu State government for its strides in addressing insecurity and advancing key sectors such as healthcare, education, and infrastructure.
“We will do everything to ensure that the Nigerian dream is realised,” the President said. “The hope you expressed is not a pipe dream. It is real, achievable, and something we will accomplish together.
“Democracy will survive despite all intimidation. Ignore the naysayers and remain focused.
”When success comes and critics react, let them. I do not lose sleep over criticism because we are committed to building a nation of bright hope for future generations, ” he said.
He also criticised past policies in the power sector, noting that earlier privatisation efforts failed to deliver results.
“They handed us darkness, and we are working hard to overcome it,” he remarked, stressing his administration’s resolve to create a prosperous and dignified future for Nigerians.
President Tinubu expressed appreciation for the delegation’s support, stating that positive reports of growth and infrastructural progress across states reflect the impact of ongoing economic reforms.
He also commended state governors for making effective use of federal allocations, leading to tangible improvements in citizens’ welfare, healthcare, education, and infrastructure.
According to the President, recent political alignments in favour of the ruling party have largely been driven by the outcomes of these reforms.
He noted that Governor Mbah’s collaboration with the Federal Government reflects the benefits of sustained support to Enugu State.
“You have been a transformative leader,” Tinubu told Mbah.
“The development we are seeing in Enugu today is remarkable. The progress in security, infrastructure, education, and healthcare is concrete evidence that reform is working.
“We will continue to work together to build a nation that all citizens can be proud of.
”On key issues such as the Port Harcourt–Enugu railway, power sector reforms, and infrastructure, these are the backbone of economic growth. We will do more.”
The President added that challenges associated with financing long-term projects using short-term resources have been mitigated through increased funding support to states, enabling better planning and execution of development initiatives.
He also acknowledged governors from opposition parties who have embraced collaboration with the Federal Government, noting a growing sense of unity and shared purpose.
“With committed and visionary leadership, Nigeria is on the right path to becoming a leading nation in Africa,” Tinubu said.
“This is not a one-person effort. It requires collaboration across federal, state, and local governments. Greater attention must also be given to strengthening local governance.”
In his remarks, Governor Peter Mbah said the delegation’s visit symbolised solidarity with the President’s vision of building a strong economic foundation for the country.
“This visit reflects our shared commitment to progress,” Mbah stated. “We are deeply grateful for your engagement and investment in the people of Enugu State.
“If it were possible, the entire population of Enugu would be here today to express appreciation.
”This delegation represents over seven million voices who are both excited and thankful. We stand firmly in support of your leadership and will back you in the 2027 elections.”
The governor highlighted several landmark projects inaugurated by the President during his January 2025 visit, noting their positive impact on socio-economic development in the state.
He also commended Tinubu’s “magnanimity and fatherly disposition,” recalling how the President bridged political divides by supporting Enugu despite previous electoral differences.
“You demonstrated true friendship to Enugu State,” Mbah added.
“Your visit broke longstanding political barriers, and your decision to invest in our state showed recognition of our development efforts.
”I recall standing beside you as we commissioned several key projects.”
Also speaking, former Senate President Ken Nnamani said the delegation came to express gratitude for federal support to Enugu State and the South-East, particularly in infrastructure.
“We have confidence in our governor’s leadership,” Nnamani said. “His achievements would not have been possible without your support. He is utilising that support effectively.
“The entire population of Enugu State would have loved to be here to say thank you, Mr President. You will benefit greatly from the goodwill of our people.”
Nnamani also affirmed that Enugu State would support President Tinubu’s re-election bid in 2027.
The delegation included prominent figures such as the Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Dr Kingsley Tochukwu Udeh; Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke; former Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla; former governors Sullivan Chime and Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi; as well as Jim Nwobodo.
Other members of the delegation comprised lawmakers, former ministers, traditional rulers, religious leaders, academics, and their spouses, reflecting a broad base of support across the region.
