President Bola Tinubu on Friday pledged his support for automatic tickets for current House of Representatives members, aiming to reduce the high turnover of members in upcoming elections. He also reiterated the importance of establishing a State Police to enhance security throughout the country.
President Tinubu noted that in some constituencies, there is a rotation of House of Representatives members. He promised to “do everything within the party’s powers” to ensure that the current members continue into 2027.
Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, conveyed that President Tinubu made these commitments at the State House during an interfaith breaking of fast with House members.
Earlier, the President had met with members of the Senate, where he commended Tajudeen Abbas, the Speaker, for his exemplary leadership and dedication to nation-building.
“I appreciate the impressive turnout, and this shows the spirit of unity. You spoke very well as a team leader; you are a very good leader. I am very happy with the representation I see here tonight, which reflects your consciousness and the richness of your leadership. I thank you for speaking so well.
“I will do everything within our party’s power. In several constituencies, there are rotational arrangements. I wish that everyone would return.”
He expressed optimism about Nigeria’s economy, stating that better days lie ahead.
“It was initially very difficult for many to understand the direction of my thinking, but I am glad we are out of the dark tunnel. Many even thought we could reverse the subsidy removal. The tension has subsided.
“I am proud of you. You collaborated with me, and today those challenges are over,” he added.
Speaker Tajudeen Abbas, in his earlier remarks, expressed gratitude to the President for maintaining the tradition of hosting members for the breaking of fast, highlighting the significance of this year’s overlap of Ramadan and Lent.
He praised the President for providing visionary leadership that has become evident to all.
“This is the first time that every member here, whether in the majority or minority, believes in what you are doing; believes in your government’s policies. In the first year, when you laid out your plans for the country, some viewed them with skepticism. But with the economy improving, inflation decreasing, agricultural activities rising, and other positive indicators, Nigeria is on the right track. Many now see you as a Messiah,” the Speaker stated.
According to him, every administration uses its first term to rectify the mistakes of its predecessors, affirming that “we have not seen the best of you yet, which we all expect to see in your second term in 2027, as you now understand the magnitude of our challenges.”
The Speaker also requested President Tinubu’s support for the return of members, lamenting that when up to 80% of National Assembly members do not return after elections, it undermines legislative continuity, as new members must undergo lengthy learning processes.
