Outgoing Speaker of the House of Representatives, Femi Gbajabiamila, expressed his departure from office with unbroken hope and a strong enthusiasm to serve the Nigerian people. Gbajabiamila delivered his farewell speech during the valedictory session of the Ninth House of Representatives on Wednesday. He reiterated his commitment to public service as he prepares to assume the role of Chief of Staff on June 14.
It is worth recalling that President Bola Tinubu appointed Gbajabiamila last Friday, following his re-election to the Surulere I Federal Constituency seat for a sixth consecutive term.
Gbajabiamila stated, “As you are all aware, the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, His Excellency, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, has nominated me to continue serving the people of Nigeria as Chief of Staff in the Presidency.”
Expressing his humility in response to this new call to duty, the Speaker said, “I came to this honorable house 20 years ago filled with hope for our nation’s future. I leave this office today with hope unbroken and my enthusiasm to serve remains undiminished.”
The Speaker emphasized his long-held belief that the ultimate purpose of political and governance efforts should be to achieve tangible improvements in the lives of the people. He stated, “The fundamental belief in the responsibility of the government to be a force for good has been my guiding light. It will continue to be so in my new endeavor.”
Gbajabiamila sought the prayers and support of his colleagues in this new chapter, affirming his commitment to ensuring a harmonious and productive relationship between the executive and legislative arms of government while respecting the independence and prerogatives of the legislature.
Acknowledging that there is a time and season for everything, the Chief of Staff-designate urged his fellow lawmakers to make the most and the best of the time they have. He stated, “As I transition into my new role, which is unlike the one I have had for these many years, I ask for your support and best wishes as we continue to work together to advance the cause and fulfill the promise of Nigeria.”
Expressing his fondness for the House of Representatives, Gbajabiamila said, “I will miss all of you and I will miss this house. I want you to rest assured that wherever the road takes me, I will carry you all in my heart, fondly because you have enriched my life in ways words alone cannot fully express.”
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