Senate President Godswill Akpabio has called on Nigerians to take ownership of and protect government infrastructure located within their communities.
Speaking at the inauguration of various projects on Wednesday, August 27, in Ika Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State, he stressed that citizens have a responsibility to prevent vandalism and ensure these facilities serve their intended purpose.
“My role is to bring the projects you have requested for the benefit of the people,” Akpabio stated, “but you, the beneficiaries, have a duty to protect them from being vandalised or destroyed.”
He emphasised that communities should view these projects as their own property, as destroying them would ultimately harm themselves and discourage further government investment.
“If you say ‘it’s government property, let’s vandalise it,’ remember we are all part of the government. You are destroying your own property and discouraging the government from doing more for your community.”
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The Senate President also reassured his constituents of the commitment of President Bola Tinubu’s administration to delivering development to all Nigerians.
He described the current government as one with a “human face,” focused on improving the lives of ordinary citizens.
As an example of this commitment, Akpabio mentioned a recent presidential approval to financially empower 1,000 Nigerians in every ward nationwide to boost their local economic capabilities.
During the event, Community leader, Chris Okorie, praised Akpabio and expressed the community’s support for the re-election of President Tinubu, Governor Umo Eno, and the Senate President in their respective roles.
Among the projects inaugurated by Akpabio was a new eight-classroom block and an ICT centre at St. Augustine Secondary School in Ika Local Government Area, which are expected to improve educational opportunities for students in the region.
