From Noah Ebije, Kaduna
A northern group under the auspices of Arewa Advocates for Good Governance (AAGG) has called on the 2023 presidential candidate of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Atiku Abubakar to forget the presidential defeat and join hands with President Bola Tinubu for the process of the country.
Atiku had recently mocked President Tinubu over his leadership style, saying it was more directed at personal interest than national interest.
Addressing a press conference on Tuesday, the National Chairman of the Arewa group, Alhaji Jamilu Mato noted that barely one year in office, President Tinubu has exhibited visionary leadership and commitment to enhancing Nigeria’s road to greater heights.
Alhaji Mato said it has become imperative for all Nigerians to celebrate a significant milestone in the nation’s infrastructural development carried out so far by Tinubu.
“We want to use this medium to caution the former Vice President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar to show some level of understanding about the good policies of the Tinubu administration, most especially on his stands on the awarded Lagos-Calabar coastal highway and not to mislead Nigerians with his utterances.
“We are calling on Alhaji Atiku Abubakar to put behind himself the defeat he suffered in the last elections and join hands with President Tinubu in his quest to move the country forward.
“We are using this medium to call on all Nigerians to join hands with the Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s-led government in this train of ‘transformation and ‘Renewed Hope’ agenda. Together, we will continue to strive for a Nigeria where connectivity, unity, progress, and prosperity are accessible to all
“We are delighted to announce and applaud President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s approval of the design for the monumental 1000-kilometre Sokoto-Badagry Coastal Highway. This project, indisputably, if completed will transform connectivity and trade across regions. This historic milestone is a testament to President Tinubu’s visionary leadership and commitment to enhancing Nigeria’s road infrastructure.
“As concerned citizens, we equally extend our sincere appreciation to the Honourable Minister of Works, Engr. David Nweze Umahi for his steadfast dedication and tireless efforts in championing this transformative project.
“In less than a year, under Senator Umahi’s leadership, the Ministry of Works has exemplified excellence and innovation, laying the foundation for sustainable development and progress.
“It is also imperative to say that the coastal road would connect the South-West, South-South, North-East, North-West and North-Central regions of Nigeria when completed. This is just as the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway project is ongoing, amongst many other federal government road projects.
“Nigerians must also know that the construction of these coastal routes in the country has the potential to attract foreign investment and contribute to a stronger naira.
“Today, we can proudly thank President Tinubu for his “Renewed Hope” agenda, particularly its profound impact on transforming Nigeria’s road infrastructure landscape. The approval of the construction of Sokoto – Badagary Road underscores President Tinubu’s commitment to advancing infrastructure development across the nation, bridging gaps, and fostering unity and economic growth.
“We are also aware that the Tinubu’s led-government is planning to connect the six -geo-political zones in the country with a network of roads that would foster a more secure, safer and sustainable transportation system.
“It is on this note that we are assuring Mr President and the minister of works of our uncompromising support and solidarity in their efforts to advance Nigeria’s infrastructure agenda and fulfil the aspirations of our people.
“As representatives of the Northern populace, we stand united in passing a vote of confidence on President Tinubu’s visionary leadership and Engr. Umahi’s exemplary stewardship at the Ministry of Works”. Mato said.