Vice President Yemi Osinbajo has stated that his desire to make Nigeria better, alongside President Muhammadu Buhari, in the last eight years, was the reason why he specifically hired those who have the desire to fix Nigeria.
Prof. Osinbajo stated this yesterday evening in his remarks at a valedictory dinner organised in his honour by the staff of the Office of the Vice President (OVP).
In a statement by his media aide, Laolu Akande, the Vice President was accompanied to the dinner by his wife, Mrs Dolapo Osinbajo, whom the VP described as “my most potent weapon.”
According to the Vice President at the event “I’m honoured to have worked with such incredible people; everyone put in exceptional hard work. I personally interviewed most of you that worked with me. I wanted people who had a heart for this country, a genuine love and concern about the progress of this nation.
“Eight years have gone by very quickly, I must say. Here we are today a few days to the inauguration. There are many great experiences, great things that have happened and I’m glad we’ve come this far.”
Commending the OVP staff for their dedication and patriotism – while highlighting the selfless service of his Police and Security Details, civil servants, his Chief of Staff, Special Advisers, Senior Special Assistants, and Special Assistants among others, Prof. Osinbajo expressed gratitude to everyone for their support throughout the eight years of the Buhari Administration.
He was also presented with gifts at the dinner event including hand written valedictory notes from staff members.
Referencing the incredible work of the OVP staff, Prof. Osinbajo said as an example that “when we talk about the Social Investment Programmes, we would talk about Maryam Uwais. No two ways about that, because she was in charge (then) and made it successful,” he said.
The Vice President further commended the Deputy Chief of Staff Mr. Ade Ipaye, a former Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice in Lagos State (2011 to 2015), for his loyalty, dedication and brilliant service.
In his remarks, Prof. Osinbajo also noted that the Nigeria’s story, despite the challenges, is one filled with hope, courage, triumphs and the incredible talents and potential of its people, for a better future.
Highlighting the country’s potential to become a world leader in different sectors, the Vice President said, “the story of our country is a story of incredible talents, everywhere you turn, you will find talents.”
He conceded that there are some tensions, and challenges, “but we must not give up. We mustn’t be despondent or discouraged by any challenge or circumstance. This country is so precious and our people talented, so much that we can bless the entire world.”
Osinbajo recalled how God saved him and 11 others with him from the helicopter crash on February 2, 2019 in Kogi State. He also recalled a similar chopper forced landing in Gwagwalada in June 2018. Then, the chopper conveying him and members of his “Main Party” from the Nigeria Customs Command and Staff College, Gwagwalada, made a forceful landing a few seconds after take-off. I’m truly grateful to the Almighty God,” he said.
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