Former Sokoto State Governor and ex-Speaker of the House of Representatives, Aminu Tambuwal, has warned that Nigeria is facing a critical moment in its history, calling on citizens and leaders alike to unite in rescuing the country from its present challenges.
Tambuwal made the remarks on Saturday while speaking at a colloquium organised to commemorate his 60th birthday.
He described the nation’s current situation as deeply troubling, noting that it reflects a sharp deviation from the ideals and sacrifices of Nigeria’s founding fathers.
According to him, genuine national recovery can only begin when Nigerians collectively acknowledge that the country’s governance framework is failing.
He stressed that honest leadership, responsible governance and national cohesion are urgently required to reverse the country’s downward trajectory.
Tambuwal urged Nigerians across political, ethnic and religious divides to work together as a collective effort to “bail out” the nation, warning that no individual or group can achieve national salvation alone.
The event drew a broad spectrum of political leaders and statesmen from across the country.
Among those present were Senate President Godswill Akpabio, represented by the Senate Minority Leader, Abba Moro; Catholic Bishop of the Sokoto Diocese, Matthew Hassan Kukah; former Speakers of the House of Representatives Patricia Etteh and Yakubu Dogara; Senator Eyinnaya Abaribe; Minister of Housing Ahmed Musa Dangiwa; and former governors including Rotimi Amaechi, Aminu Masari, Udom Emmanuel, Ibikunle Amosun and Gbenga Daniel.
Also in attendance were former Deputy Speaker Emeka Ihedioha and the National Secretary of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Rauf Aregbesola.
Former President Goodluck Jonathan, who participated virtually, acknowledged that there were moments of friction between the executive and the legislature during Tambuwal’s tenure as Speaker.
He however, praised Tambuwal’s leadership ability, noting that he commanded strong loyalty from members of the House and successfully held the chamber together during a politically sensitive period.
Former Senate President David Mark also commended Tambuwal’s leadership qualities and wished him well in his future endeavours.
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, who reportedly cut short a vacation abroad to attend the event, described Tambuwal as a leader with significant national potential and urged him to continue living up to the expectations of Nigerians.
Former Edo State Governor Adams Oshiomhole likewise praised Tambuwal’s capacity to manage a politically divided legislature and recalled his personal support during a difficult period in his life.
Tambuwal’s remarks added to growing national conversations on governance, leadership and unity amid rising economic, social and political challenges facing the country.
