Jimoh Ibrahim delivers valedictory speech in senate after confirmation as ambassador

Jimoh Ibrahim, senator representing Ondo south, delivered a valedictory speech on the senate floor on Tuesday following his confirmation as a non-career ambassador.

Ibrahim was among the 64 ambassadorial nomineesconfirmed by the senate on December 18 after President Bola Tinubu’s nomination.

Addressing his colleagues after coming under order 42 (personal explanation) during the plenary, the lawmaker thanked the leadership of the 10th senate, describing the chamber as liberal, inclusive and focused on national development.

“I must sincerely appreciate the effort of this chamber and, more importantly, the leadership of the 10th senate under your very able leadership,” he said.

Ibrahim said the senate’s practice over the last two and a half years reflected liberal democratic principles consistent with Nigeria’s political system.

“This senate has been one in history that has distilled serious concern for national interest and national development,” he said.

The senator said cross-carpeting by lawmakers should be viewed as a response to national development imperatives rather than political opportunism.

“People cross carpets not because of political gain, but when national development becomes very, very important,” he said.

He added that diversity of religion and opinion among senators had not hindered governance but contributed to national unity.

Ibrahim also commended the collaboration between the senate and the executive, describing Tinubu as a liberal leader.

“We also see our president of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Bola Tinubu, as a liberalist,” he said.

The lawmaker dismissed claims that the senate is compromised, noting that its membership comprises experienced former governors, ambassadors and legislators from diverse backgrounds.

“It is not that the senate is dull, no, and it is not that the senate is a compromised senate,” he said.

Ibrahim urged senators to continue supporting the leadership of Senate President Godswill Akpabio, emphasising cooperation and collaboration.

“Collaboration is what I am leaving you with,” he said.

He thanked past and present leaders of the senate and wished his colleagues well, expressing confidence in Nigeria’s future.

“Nigeria is a great country, and it will continue to be a great country,” he said.

Responding, Akpabio congratulated Ibrahim on his nomination and praised his contributions to the chamber.

“Thank you for your liberal words; thank you for collaborating with your colleagues and showing love and cooperation,” Akpabio said.

“The senate is a senate of brotherhood,” he added.

Akpabio wished Ibrahim success in his new role as a non-career ambassador of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.(The Cable)