𝘼 𝙔𝙀𝘼𝙍 𝙊𝙁 𝙎𝙀𝙍𝙑𝙄𝘾𝙀: 𝙂𝙍𝘼𝙏𝙄𝙏𝙐𝘿𝙀 𝘼𝙉𝘿 𝙍𝙀𝘿𝙀𝘿𝙄𝘾𝘼𝙏𝙄𝙊𝙉 – Philip Agbese

My esteemed constituents,

Today marks a significant milestone in my journey as a member of the House of Representatives. It’s been one year since I took the oath of office, and I’m honoured to reflect on our progress and renew my commitment to serving our people. We have made significant strides in legislation, oversight, and constituency development. We have passed bills, moved motions, and engaged in debates aimed at improving the lives of Nigerians.

We sponsored a record nine bills with three passing second reading, including the critical bill for an Act for the establishment of the Federal College of Agriculture, Agila which received the overwhelming support of my colleagues and stakeholders during a recent public hearing. We have also moved four groundbreaking motions which were unanimously adopted by the House. Particularly, I am thrilled that one of the motions on the need to investigate crude oil theft and loss of revenue accrued from the oil and gas sector in Nigeria was named among the best in 2023.

In our little way, we have paid attention to human capital development, and youth empowerment while facilitating educational support to students through scholarships and mentorship, engaging with stakeholders to promote community development and attracting Federal Government grants and palliatives. I have been fortunate to be named into 13 committees and to be selected as the Deputy Spokesman/ Vice-Chairman, House Committee on Media and Public Affairs.

I have also been honoured to be nominated as a member of the Pan-African Parliament, subsequently elected Rapporteur, Committee on Health, Labour and Social Affairs. Due to our early strides and trailblazing performance, we were nominated to chair the Nigeria-Finland Parliamentary Friendship Group to enhance Nigeria’s legislative relationship with Finland in line with the 10th National Assembly Legislative Agenda. These assignments have enabled us to drive progress in critical areas, fostering innovation and empowering Nigerians.

I want to express my gratitude to my constituents and leaders particularly my predecessors Hon. Francis Agbo, Hon. Hassan Saleh, Hon. David Idoko, and Hon. Bernard Ochepa just to mention a few. My wonderful father, Chief Barr. John A. A. Ochoga, the Akpa Olofu of Agila and my Uncle, Chief Mike Okibe Onoja CON, the Akanaba Agila have never left me from the time of the campaign until this hour. I must also commend Chief Dan Agbese, His Excellency, Chief Audu Ogbeh, Chief Simon Shango and Senator Tilley Gyado. Their support, feedback, and encouragement have fueled my passion for service.

To my colleagues and staff, I appreciate your dedication, expertise, and camaraderie. Together, we’ve built a strong team that puts Enone first. My elder brother, Rep. Akin Rotimi Akin Jnr has shown me and my family tremendous love. Special appreciation goes to the Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, PhD, for his leadership and guidance. His wisdom and vision have created an enabling environment for us to thrive.

I respectfully stand on the shoulders of a giant, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume. His guidance, wisdom, and unwavering support have been instrumental in my journey thus far. For us in Benue, Saint George is our ‘Archangel’, Sir George is our ‘Patron Saint’ and Jugu Dajoh Akume is the ‘Grand Oracle’ of our political decimal point; the beginning and the end of all political animals in Benue since 1999. His loving wife, Hon. (Mrs) Regina Akume has carried me on her back like a son in the parliament. I am forever grateful, mummy.

I must appreciate the Deputy Governor of Benue State, His Excellency Dr Sam Ode for his crucial role in my life’s journey. Comrade Austin Agada, our capacity state chairman has always been there for me. To my entire family, particularly Mr Best and Mrs Susan; friends and associates, your contributions have made a significant impact on my work and the lives of my constituents. Thank you for your unwavering support and commitment to our shared goals.

Our second year has already begun with sky-high expectations. We are aware of the monumental tasks ahead. Therefore, I assure you that I will continue to listen to your concerns, amplify your voices, and work tirelessly to address the challenges facing our constituency. Our focus will be on the three 3Ps that make up our policy commitment: Parliament, People and Projects.

We will work tirelessly towards attracting meaningful projects that will improve the lives of our people. I am committed to collaborating with relevant stakeholders, government agencies, and private sector partners to bring in investments that will create jobs, stimulate economic growth, and enhance our infrastructure. Our focus will be on projects that address the specific needs of our constituency in agriculture, health, infrastructure, sports and youth development.

In all we do, humanity comes first. Therefore, we will continue to empower our great people. From youth empowerment, support for women and the vulnerable, secret bank alerts for the elderly to palliatives and stomach infrastructure, ours is to create a better life for all constituents, regardless of age, gender, or socio-economic status. I will work closely with stakeholders to ensure that our community receives the support it needs to thrive.

I am reminded that my primary responsibility is to serve the people through effective legislation. I pledge to continue on this core assignment of making laws that benefit our great nation and constituents. I will propose more bills that address the pressing needs of our people, engage in robust debates and committee work to ensure the passage of meaningful legislation and collaborate with fellow lawmakers to build consensus and advance our legislative agenda. We will make sure that our landmark bills go beyond the legislature to receive presidential assent.

As we look ahead, I’m excited about the opportunities and challenges. We’ll work assiduously to ensure that our potential is realised for the benefit of all citizens. We will also continue to engage with stakeholders, facilitate town hall meetings, and ensure that your voices are heard in the decision-making process. Thank you again for your trust and support. Let’s continue working together to build a brighter future for our people.

Long Live Enone! Long live the Federal Republic of Nigeria!

Your Servant
Hon. Philip Agbese
13th June 2024