The Director General/Chief Executive Officer of the National Institute for Sports (NIS), H.E Comrade Philip Shaibu, delivered a message of unity, gratitude, and political resilience as the Edo State APC Chairman, Emperor Jarret Tenebe, hosted a thanksgiving ceremony in Ogbona, Etsako East Local Government Area of Edo State.
The event, organized by Tenebe as the celebrant, was to appreciate God for his victory and the successes recorded by the All Progressives Congress (APC) across the state, drawing party leaders, stakeholders, and supporters from various parts of Edo.
Speaking at the ceremony, Shaibu emphasized the importance of giving thanks to God, noting that the party’s achievements were rooted in faith and perseverance.
“When you thank God, you attract more blessings. When the going was tough, Jarret Tenebe showed the efficacy of prayers, and today we are celebrating victory,” Shaibu said.
He described Tenebe as “Atanakpa 1 of the Universe” as a strong and committed leader who stood firm in difficult times and helped unite the party.
Shaibu also highlighted the growing synergy among key APC leaders, including Governor Senator Monday Okpebholo and Senator Adams Oshiomhole, stating that their collaboration has strengthened the party, particularly in Edo North.
“When you have Jarret Tenebe, Oshiomhole, and the Governor working together, it becomes difficult for any opposition to stand. What we are building will set the pace for others across Edo State,” he noted.
Reflecting on his personal experience, Shaibu expressed deep gratitude to Tenebe for standing by him during his impeachment under the administration of former Governor Godwin Obaseki.
“Jarret Tenebe stood by me when it mattered most. Despite our disagreements, he said, ‘this is our own, we must stand by him.’ That loyalty, along with the support of Governor Okpebholo and former APC National Chairman Abdullahi Ganduje, brought me back to the APC,” he said.
He called on party members to continue praying for leaders at all levels, including President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, stressing that their success would translate into progress for the people.
In his remarks, the celebrant and Edo State APC Chairman, Emperor Jarret Tenebe, expressed gratitude to God and used the occasion to call for unity and reconciliation within the party.
He openly apologised to individuals he may have offended during party primaries, congresses, and other political activities, including Philip Shaibu and Senator Adams Oshiomhole.
Tenebe admitted that he once held certain views about Shaibu but said his understanding changed after assuming leadership of the party.
“I am apologising to everyone I may have offended. Leadership has taught me that some of the things we see as wrong are actually qualities of strong leadership,” he said.
He urged party members who are yet to receive appointments or nominations to remain patient, assuring them that the current administration would not forget their contributions.
Tenebe also recalled efforts to rebuild unity within the party, revealing that he reached out to Shaibu and other young leaders to promote forgiveness and a fresh start.
He paid tribute to Senator Adams Oshiomhole for his contributions to Edo North and Nigeria, noting that party leaders have resolved to work together to secure his re-election and ensure he attains a ranking position in the Senate.
“We must forget the past and move forward with one voice and one spirit,” Tenebe added.
According to Ben Ogbemudia,
S. A. Media, Office of the Director General and Chief Executive Officer, National Institute for Sports. The thanksgiving ceremony not only celebrated Tenebe’s personal victory but also served as a platform to reinforce unity, acknowledge loyalty, and strengthen the APC’s political structure ahead of future engagements in Edo State.
