Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodimma, has expressed confidence in President Bola Tinubu’s ability to transform Nigeria, stating that millions of Nigerians share this belief. He further emphasized that if Tinubu cannot fix the country, many would see it as a loss of hope.

Speaking on Saturday at the President’s 73rd birthday celebration in Abuja, Uzodimma highlighted Tinubu’s bold economic decisions as a testament to his commitment to addressing Nigeria’s challenges.

“Only a leader with strong conviction and genuine love for the nation could have made such bold yet necessary decisions. These decisions have averted economic collapse and are now restoring hope and confidence across the country,” Uzodimma stated.

He reiterated his stance, saying, “As I have said before, and I emphasize again tonight, millions of Nigerians believe that if you cannot fix this country, then all hope is lost. I am pleased to confirm that you have not let us down. Through your purposeful and transformative leadership, Nigeria is back on track and progressing with renewed determination toward a brighter future.”

Uzodimma credited Tinubu with reigniting the Nigerian spirit of ingenuity and resilience, restoring faith in the nation, and securing his place in history through bold reforms and dedicated service. He extended his best wishes to the President, praying for divine guidance and strength.

As Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) Governors Forum, Uzodimma underscored the importance of Tinubu’s leadership, noting that the nation still needs his direction. He assured the President of continued prayers for strength to fulfill his mission for Nigeria.

“We still rely on your leadership, Mr. President. While we may not have silver or gold to offer, we will always pray for you, asking God to strengthen your resolve to leave a lasting legacy for this generation and those yet to come,” he concluded.

The Ogun State government, under the leadership of Governor Dapo Abiodun, has announced plans to acquire a 9-megawatt hydro power plant located within the Ogun-Osun River Basin Development Authority. This move aims to boost electricity supply across the state by leveraging renewable energy.

During an inspection of the facility, Governor Abiodun revealed that discussions with the Bureau of Public Enterprises (BPE) are underway to finalize the acquisition. He emphasized that integrating the hydro power plant with the state’s existing 30-megawatt gas-fired power plant in Onijanganjangan would create a more reliable and balanced energy mix, enhancing power distribution in Ogun State.

Commissioned in 1983, the hydro power plant has remained largely underutilized, despite its potential to support sustainable energy generation. The governor explained that the dam was originally designed for multiple purposes, including water management, irrigation, electricity generation, and agricultural development.

“Only one of the three turbines was ever commissioned, while the other two were never fully installed,” Abiodun noted. “We are actively working with the BPE to take over and fully optimize this power plant.”

As part of the Ogun State Light Up Project, engineers will soon assess the facility to determine the best approach for restoring its full capacity. This initiative aligns with the government’s broader strategy to establish power plants in key locations such as Abeokuta, Ijebu, Remo, and Yewa, ensuring more stable electricity access across the state.

Beyond electricity generation, the governor highlighted the immense agricultural potential of the River Basin. He suggested that the land could be developed into farm clusters to maximize irrigation benefits, further supporting food production. Additionally, he pointed out that the area is well-suited for cattle farming, aligning with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Food Initiative.

Governor Abiodun also commended the original vision behind the hydro power project but criticized the federal government’s inconsistency in project execution, which has led to the underutilization of key infrastructure.

Addressing concerns about frequent flooding in Isheri, he clarified that, according to the River Basin’s Managing Director, the dam is not responsible for the issue, which originates from other water sources.

This strategic acquisition marks a significant step toward Ogun State’s commitment to energy diversification and sustainable development.

The South-South Governors’ Forum has called for the reversal of the state of emergency in Rivers State that was declared by President Bola Tinubu.

The statement issued on Thursday was signed by the Chairman of the South-South Governors’ Forum, Governor Douye Diri of Bayelsa State in Yenagoa, the state capital.

It reads , “To reduce tensions and establish a foundation for enduring peace, we propose the Rescission of the State of Emergency.”

The forum also called for dialogue as a path forward and encouraged all parties to remain calm, uphold peace and the constitution of the country.

The forum noted the six-month state of emergency and suspension of two democratic institutions as recognised the president’s constitutional duty to maintain law and order in the country as well as their mandate to secure peace and stability in their states.