The Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodimma, says Nigeria was in a dire economic state before President Bola Tinubu assumed office, insisting that the administration’s reforms are now beginning to produce tangible results despite the hardship faced by citizens.
Speaking at the All Progressives Congress South-West stakeholders’ meeting in Lagos on Saturday, Uzodimma likened Nigeria’s condition before Tinubu’s inauguration to that of an infertile woman.
“Nigeria was like a barren woman looking for a child before President Bola Tinubu came,” he said.
The governor, who also serves as the national coordinator of the Renewed Hope Ambassadors, added that Tinubu introduced the necessary policy measures, describing them as “fertility drugs” to revive economic productivity.
“He introduced the fertility drugs needed. Yes, they came with pains, but we are seeing results. We are not after excuses. We are interested in results,” Uzodimma said.
His comments followed the conclusion of a two-day meeting of the Progressive Governors’ Forum in Lagos on Saturday, where APC governors reviewed the state of the nation, the impact of ongoing reforms, and the worsening security situation.
Uzodimma conveyed the governors’ collective appreciation to Nigerians for what he called their “resilience” in the face of economic difficulties triggered by the federal government’s reform measures.
Addressing the recent surge in kidnappings and terrorist attacks, the governor expressed confidence that the country would triumph over its security challenges.
Uzodimma also questioned the sources of funding for criminal networks.
“God made Tinubu possible. Of late, we have seen the level of insecurity and banditry increase. Who are the people funding these criminalities? Progressive governors are united. Nigeria must win,” he said.
Speaking on his role with the Renewed Hope Ambassadors, Uzodimma explained that the group was created to take the administration’s policies directly to communities across the country.
He said the structure will operate at the zonal, state, local government and ward levels, aligning with Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Ward Development Programme.
Uzodimma noted that a major target is to establish at least 1,000 active businesses in every ward, capitalising on the increased revenue allocations to states.
