Immediate past Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Udom Emmanuel, has thrown his weight behind the economic reforms being implemented by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, saying the policies are beginning to produce encouraging results as reflected in key macroeconomic indicators.

Emmanuel, a former banker, maintained that although the country is facing significant economic challenges, the emerging improvements in Nigeria’s macroeconomic fundamentals provide grounds for optimism and deserve the support of all Nigerians.

His position was conveyed by his Special Assistant on Media, Stephen Abia, while speaking with journalists on preparations for the former governor’s 60th birthday.

According to Emmanuel, nations confronted with existential challenges require collective support for the leadership to restore stability and normalcy.

“When nations face existential crisis, leaders are bound to rally around the incumbent leadership in a bid to rescue and restore normalcy. Our case in Nigeria shouldn’t be different as we confront our current challenges,” he said.

He added that the President deserved the support of Nigerians, noting that there were positive developments within the country’s macroeconomic environment.

“As a player in Nigeria’s economic and financial sector, there are some improvements in critical economic indicators. Mr. President deserves all our support,” he stated.

Speaking on the cancelled birthday celebration, Abia explained that Emmanuel, who turns 60, had initially accepted a proposal by friends to mark the milestone but later opted for a quiet and reflective observance.

According to him, the former governor, known for his private disposition, decided instead to dedicate the day to a personal retreat focused on prayer, reflection and contemplation on leadership, responsibility and nation-building.

Abia said Emmanuel considered it important to acknowledge what he described as the positive macroeconomic signals emerging from the Federal Government’s bold economic reforms.

“He stated that he could not ignore the positive macroeconomic indicators emerging from the bold and far-reaching economic reforms undertaken by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu,” Abia said.

The former governor expressed confidence that the gains reflected in the country’s macroeconomic fundamentals would, in time, translate into improved living conditions for ordinary Nigerians and strengthen the nation’s overall economic wellbeing.

He stressed that policies designed to advance the national interest should enjoy broad national support, irrespective of political affiliations.

Emmanuel consequently assured President Tinubu of his continued support for reforms aimed at promoting sustainable economic growth, stability and long-term national prosperity.