News
Concern Grows Over Lokoja–Abuja Road as Tinubu’s Aide Demands Faster Execution from Contractors
Joel Ajayi
The Presidency has expressed concern over the slow pace of work on key federal road projects in Kogi State, urging contractors to accelerate construction to meet agreed timelines.
The Special Assistant to the President on Community Engagement, North Central, Dr. Abiodun Essieti, raised the concern on Monday during an inspection tour of major road projects across the state.
She described the level of work observed as unsatisfactory and far below expectations, considering the stipulated completion periods.
The inspection covered critical infrastructure projects, including the Lokoja–Abuja Road, the Anyigba road embankment, and the Abajana flyover. Dr. Essieti was accompanied by directors from the Federal Ministry of Works and members of the press.
She stressed that timely completion of the projects is crucial to easing transportation challenges, improving safety, and boosting economic activities within the North Central region.
Recall that the Minister of Works, Engr. David Umahi, had last year terminated four federal road contracts in Kogi State due to poor performance by contractors. During a subsequent inspection, the minister directed contractors handling ongoing projects to mobilize additional equipment and personnel to fast-track delivery.
However, months after the directive, little improvement has been recorded. Contractors, including Gitto and Sail-Through, were observed to have failed to meet project timelines and showed no visible signs of increased deployment of equipment at their respective sites.
The Presidency has therefore warned that continued delays will not be tolerated, reaffirming the Federal Government’s commitment to ensuring value for money and timely delivery of critical infrastructure projects.
News
Nigeria at 66: ‘We Must Not Lose Faith in Nigeria’ — FCC Boss Omidiran
Joel Ajayi
The Executive Chairman of the Federal Character Commission (FCC), Honorable Hulayat Motunrayo Omidiran, has called on Nigerians to use the occasion of the nation’s 66th Independence Anniversary to renew their faith in Nigeria, strengthen national unity and recommit themselves to building a more inclusive and prosperous country.
In her 66th Independence Day message, Hon. Omidiran described October 1 as more than a celebration of freedom, saying the anniversary provides an opportunity for Nigerians to reflect on the country’s journey, acknowledge its progress and challenges, and renew the collective determination to build a nation where every citizen has a sense of belonging.
According to the FCC Executive Chairman, the Federal Character Principle remains particularly important to the quest for national cohesion because equitable representation promotes a sense of ownership and confidence in the Nigerian project.
“Nigeria is a nation of great diversity and
enormous potential. Our responsibility is to ensure that this diversity becomes a bridge that connects us rather than a barrier that separates us. Every Nigerian deserves to feel that he or she belongs to this country and has a role to play in its development,” Omidiran said.
The FCC boss called on government institutions at all levels to remain committed to fairness, equity, accountability and inclusive governance, while urging citizens to support efforts aimed at strengthening national institutions and promoting peaceful coexistence.
“We must not lose faith in Nigeria. The challenges before us are real, but so are the opportunities and the enormous human and natural resources available to us. Every citizen has a responsibility to contribute his or her own quota to building the Nigeria we desire,” she stated.
The FCC Executive Chairman also urged young Nigerians to remain committed to acquiring knowledge and skills, entrepreneurship, innovation, sports and other productive ventures, describing the youth as critical stakeholders in the country’s future.
“As we celebrate 66 years of independence, let us remember that the Nigeria we want cannot be built by government alone. It requires the commitment of all of us – leaders and citizens, young and old, from every part of the federation. Together, we can build a Nigeria where justice, fairness, opportunity and peace are available to all,” she said.
Omidiran reaffirmed the FCC’s commitment to the effective discharge of its constitutional mandate and to supporting efforts that promote equitable representation and inclusive national development across the federation.
The former lawmaker wished Nigerians at home and abroad a peaceful and memorable 66th Independence Anniversary, praying for continued peace, stability, prosperity and progress for the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
“Our differences should never be greater than our common identity as Nigerians. Let us continue to choose unity over division, service over self-interest and hope over despair. The Nigeria of our dreams is possible if we all play our part,” Omidiran said.
“On behalf of the Federal Character Commission, I congratulate all Nigerians on this 66th Independence Anniversary. May this occasion renew our patriotism, strengthen our unity and inspire us to work together for a stronger, more equitable and prosperous Nigeria. May God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” she added.
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