“We are finished”: FG seeks governors’ support for federal projects in states

DDM News

The Federal Government has appealed to state governors for full cooperation in implementing federal infrastructure projects across Nigeria.

Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) reports that the call was made by the Minister of Works, Engr. Dave Umahi, during a working visit to Abia State.

Umahi toured ongoing federal road construction sites and reviewed major infrastructure projects championed by Governor Alex Otti.

He commended the governor’s efforts, particularly the transformation of Port Harcourt Road in Aba, describing it as “mind-blowing.”

“I’m very proud of what you’re doing for the people of Abia,” Umahi said, noting that the quality of completed works was exceptional.

He praised the governor for stepping in to fix some federal roads and urged continued collaboration to fast-track development.

The Minister specifically mentioned the other lane of the Enugu-Port Harcourt Expressway, which remains in a deplorable state.

“Even if you use the same contractor, go ahead and help the people,” he urged.

Umahi emphasized that cooperation between states and the Federal Government is essential, regardless of political affiliations.

He also commended the existing cordial relationship between President Bola Tinubu and Governor Otti.

The Minister appealed to the people of the South-East to support Tinubu’s administration and its development plans.

According to him, the President is committed to integrating the region into the mainstream of national progress.

Governor Otti, in his response, expressed his readiness to partner with the Federal Government on critical infrastructure.

He stressed that the main goal was to serve the people, irrespective of whether a project is federal or state-owned.

“When the roads are done, the credit goes to government, not necessarily who executed it. The people are what matters,” he said.

Governor Otti recounted how he secured federal approval for the rehabilitation of strategic roads in the state.

These include the Port Harcourt Road in Aba, the Ohafia-Arochukwu Road, and the Onuimo-Umuahia Road.

He addressed the delay in the commissioning of completed roads, attributing it to the President’s recent trip to the Vatican.

President Tinubu’s visit was to attend the inauguration of the new Pope, which coincided with the original commissioning date.

“We were ready to commission the Port Harcourt Road and others on the 23rd of last month,” Otti explained.

“But because of the President’s travel, we’re working with his office to confirm a new date for his visit.”

He assured that more roads would be ready for commissioning when President Tinubu arrives in the state.

The governor also pledged to inspect the bad section of the Enugu-Port Harcourt carriageway, as advised by the Minister.

Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to prioritizing the welfare of Nigerians through infrastructure investment and cooperation.

DDM notes that increased federal-state collaboration has become crucial for ensuring timely completion of national development projects.

With political differences often hindering joint efforts in the past, observers see this renewed synergy as a positive sign.

The Federal Government hopes such partnerships will accelerate the repair of critical roads and improve transportation nationwide.

Governor Otti’s administration has been lauded for its proactive steps in addressing long-standing infrastructure deficits in Abia.

President Tinubu is expected to visit Abia before the end of the year to commission completed projects and engage with stakeholders.

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