Former Niger Delta militant leader, Endurance Amagbein, on Thursday praised President Bola Tinubu for sustaining the vision of Nigeria’s founding fathers.
He gave the commendation in a message to congratulate the government and Nigerians on the nation’s 66th Independence Anniversary and 30 years of the creation of Bayelsa.
Amagbein, In the statement made available to newsmen in Abuja, stressed the need for continuity in 2027.
He called on Nigerians to strengthen national unity and cohesion as the country celebrates its freedom and gradually approaches the 2027 general elections.
The ex-agitator fondly called Adaka Boro the Second, said despite the challenges, the two milestones provided an opportunity for Nigerians and Bayelsans to reflect on the sacrifices of the country’s founding fathers and the responsibilities of the present generation.
He stated that even though Nigeria had passed through military rule, civil conflict, political transitions, economic challenges and security concerns since independence, there’s need for citizens to continue to demonstrate resilience in order to reach the promise land.
Amagbein, the self-styled General, maintained that the policies and programmes of President Tinubu since he assumed office in May 2023 had brought a thriving economy which is benefiting both Nigerians and foreigners.
He said despite fears expressed by some Nigerians that the foreigners would take over the market and entire economy, “the truth remains that this is happening because President Bola Tinubu has created a sustainable economy which is conducive for businesses to thrive.”
The ex-agitator said he had received uncountable criticism both on social media and offline for supporting the administration.
He, however, maintained that he was still happy supporting the Renewed Hope Agenda because, despite the criticisms, nobody had beaten Tinubu’s record.
“When Tinubu hands over power in 2031, his successor will have to work ten times harder to match the achievements of the current administration in virtually all sectors,” he said.
Amagbein also expressed gratitude to the Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa, and the Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, and all the service chiefs for the gains recorded in the fight against terrorism, banditry and other forms of violent crimes in the country.
He said that with the help of the security agencies under the current leadership, the nation’s dignity had been restored and criminals no longer have any place to hide.
He said this feat could not have been possible if the service chiefs were not proactive.
He said the morale of officers and men of the various security agencies had been boosted more than ever.
According to him, this government has paid more attention to the plight of the military, and invested in the welfare of officers more than any government.
“Elections are fast approaching and politicians will promise heaven and earth just to be voted into power, but President Bola Tinubu remains Nigeria’s hope for a better tomorrow,” he said.
On the 30th anniversary of Bayelsa, Amagbein stressed the need for more developmental projects to be sited in the state.
He said as the headquarters of Ijaw nation, Bayelsa’s progress is tied to the unity of stakeholders across board.
Amagbein expresed his gratitude to Gov. Douye Diri for sustaining peace in the state.
He said he did not regret his contribution to the reelection of the governor in the last 2023 poll.
Amagbein reiterated that Diri had made significant impact in the infrastructural wellbeing of Bayelsa.
He said in other ethnic nationalities, despite their political inclinations, they still find a common ground to unite and push for the development of their states.
He cited the recently concluded Osun governorship election where the people are forging ahead after a tough political battle.
He lamented that communities in Bayelsa and other parts of Ijaw land are still in ruins and yet to recover from the negative effects of elections held many years ago.
He said there’s need for the Ijaw nation to realise that “election is never winner takes it all or about killing or silencing dissenting voices, but the unity and development of the land and people of the state.”
Amagbein said there’s need for election related issues to be resolved peacefully immediately after every poll as the state prepares for another governorship poll.
“This is the only way to guarantee the peace and development of the state,” he said.
He, therefore, joined other eminent personalities to congratulate Nigerians on the celebrations.