President Bola Tinubu has said that Nigeria is facing a very challenging time and that his administration is still returning and rejigging the nation’s financial system to bring prosperity and relief to Nigerians.
Tinubu, who spoke yesterday during the commissioning of Engineering Infrastructure at Guzape District Lot II, Road M18 in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), said his administration was prioritising people-focused development by providing essential infrastructure and amenities that would improve citizens’ quality of life.
“Minister Nyesom Wike has provided exceptional leadership at a trying time for the country. It has been a very challenging time for us in the country.
“We are still retooling and rejigging our financial system to bring prosperity and relief to the people of this country.
“You have demonstrated the capacity to build a team, lead a team, and deliver on promises. I commend you, well done.
“To all of you here, to the District Head of Guzape, and the representatives, litigation is not the answer, Compensation is the answer.
“Development that is focused on the people for economic prosperity and benefits is what we should pursue.
“Of what value is a swathe of land that is blocked by hills and rocks, and that is inaccessible. Let us talk to our people and come together to help build Nigeria,” said Tinubu.
The president, who commended the contractor handling the project, Gilmor Engineering Ltd., emphasised that his commitment to providing infrastructure across the country was not for personal enrichment or aggrandizement.
“I stand here as president; I do not have a plot of land here (Guzape District). But I have the people’s support and the mandate to deliver good quality of life and a living environment.
“That should be enough for all of us to share in the joy of commitment, dedication, perseverance, and the little gifts God has endowed us,” the President said.
The Minister of FCT, Nyesom Wike, said the contract, initially awarded in 2003 at the cost of N14 billion, was divided into Lots 1 and 2 to Messrs Dantata & Sawoe Construction Company Nigeria Ltd. and Messrs Gilmor Engineering Ltd.
“Dantata had left the site for long. We had to bring them back after the President approved a memorandum to that effect,” Wike said.
The minister said the development of the district, which covered 32km of road, had been fraught with litigation, but this did not deter the progress of the project.
He said shortly before the present administration assumed office, the cost of the project was revised to N18.17 billion.
Wike commended the President for not abandoning the project owing to his belief in government as a continuum.