Key Takeaways
- Former Governor Ifeanyi Okowa praised President Tinubu's economic reforms, citing their positive impact on national stability.
- The removal of fuel subsidy is credited with significantly improving the financial health of states and local governments, enabling salary payments.
- The National Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) has reportedly benefited over 1.6 million tertiary students, addressing initial skepticism.
- Okowa strongly advocated for President Tinubu's second term to ensure the consolidation and completion of ongoing economic and social reforms.
- The Working People United (WPU) group visited Okowa, pledging support for good governance and key political figures, including Tinubu.
ASABA, Delta State – Senator Ifeanyi Okowa, the immediate past Governor of Delta State, has voiced strong support for President Bola Tinubu's administration, asserting that the President assumed leadership at a critical juncture for Nigeria. Speaking in Asaba during a courtesy visit from the national leadership of Working People United (WPU), Okowa highlighted the significant strides made by the current administration in repositioning the nation's economy and tackling pressing socio-economic and political challenges.
Okowa specifically pointed to the courageous decision to remove the fuel subsidy as a pivotal reform. This measure, he explained, has dramatically improved the financial standing of states and local governments across the federation. Prior to these reforms, by May 2023, a staggering 27 states were reportedly struggling to pay workers' salaries. Today, however, all states and local governments are capable of meeting their financial obligations to employees, a transformation Okowa attributed directly to President Tinubu's decisive leadership.
Beyond fiscal stabilization, the former governor also lauded the Federal Government's National Education Loan Fund (NELFUND). Describing the student loan scheme as another key reform aimed at revitalizing the economy through human capital development, Okowa revealed that over 1.6 million students in tertiary institutions have already benefited. He noted that while the scheme initially faced skepticism and was dismissed by some as a 'scam,' its successful implementation has encouraged widespread enrollment, urging more eligible students to take advantage of the program.
Expressing unwavering confidence in the President's vision, Okowa passionately called on Nigerians to rally behind Tinubu's reform agenda. He articulated his belief that a second term would provide the necessary continuity for the President to consolidate the gains already achieved and further refocus the nation's economy towards the aspirations of its citizens. He maintained that the ongoing reforms are foundational to Nigeria's long-term prosperity and stability.
Earlier in the visit, Comrade Williams Akporeha, the National Coordinator of WPU, informed Okowa about the group's objectives, which include promoting good governance and active political participation. The WPU, comprising public and private sector workers, self-employed individuals, and artisans, pledged its support for Okowa's senatorial ambitions, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, and President Tinubu, ahead of the 2027 general elections. Okowa, in turn, expressed optimism that Nigerians would eventually fully appreciate the administration's policies and urged WPU members to actively support the government.
Why This Matters
This endorsement from a prominent opposition figure like Senator Okowa underscores the perceived impact of President Tinubu's economic policies, highlighting their potential to reshape Nigeria's financial landscape and educational access for millions.