Tinubu directs measures to blunt impact of Middle East crisis on Nigerians – THIS

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the weekend asked the Ministers of Budget and Finance, together with the head of the Federal Service, to examine how the administration can mitigate the stinging effects on Nigerians of the Israeli-American war against Iran.

He gave the directive during a civic reception in Yenagoa, the Bayelsa State capital, after commissioning some projects undertaken by the administration of Governor Douye Diri. The event was attended by the service manager, Mrs Didi Esther Walson-Jack, originally from Bayelsa.

Four governors, Hope Uzodimma of Imo, Dapo Abiodun of Ogun, Umoh Eno of Akwa Ibom and Sheriff Francis Orohwedor Oborevwori of Delta, accompanied the president to the state. Borno State Deputy Governor Umar Usman Kadafur represented Governor Babagana Zulum.

Former Delta State governor, James Ibori, and Senator Ben Murray-Bruce were among the dignitaries present at the civic reception.

President Tinubu reiterated that his administration is aware of the ongoing economic challenges arising from the war in the Middle East, but was quick to add that his government will work with the Ministry of Finance, the Ministry of Budget and the Chief of Service to propose measures to alleviate the difficulties.

“Yes, I hear you from various points of view of the economy. Fuel prices are tough. But look around you. We thank God that we better listen to what is happening in other African countries, what they are going through.”

The President assured the public that his administration will continue to seek ways to alleviate the suffering of the most vulnerable.

“This is a government that cares. We will look at the numbers with the Ministry of Finance, Budget and Economic Planning,” he said.

President Tinubu said the All Progressives Congress (APC) at all levels is committed to improving the welfare of citizens.

“Regardless of their shenanigans, the All Progressives Congress (APC) believes that people deserve to see governance translated into roads, bridges, power, jobs and real opportunities that impact human beings. This signals the development of our country.

“We are all working hard. The projects I commissioned today demonstrate and bear witness to an immutable truth: development advances further, faster when the federal government and state government work in partnership and towards a shared purpose,” President Tinubu said.

The President commended Governor Douye Diri for undertaking impactful projects in line with this administration’s renewed hope agenda.

“Douye, you have done a great job. I have commissioned some projects, very transformative projects. The bridge, which connects communities and dual carriageways, creates opportunities, jobs and hope for our nation. Thank you for this commitment and thank you for being a very progressive governor,” he said.

The President recalled his pioneering efforts towards the establishment of the Independent Power Station as governor of Lagos State, stressing that despite dire energy challenges across the nation, his administration will ensure energy self-sufficiency for national development.

President Tinubu commended Governor Diri for demonstrating the power of very proactive leadership and assured him that the Federal Government will continue to collaborate with sub-national governments for the benefit of citizens through job creation and skill enhancement.

At the start of the event, President Tinubu observed a minute’s silence in memory of the fallen members of the armed forces who lost their lives defending the nation in theaters of battle, as well as the former governor of the state, DSP Alamieyeseigha.

The President had earlier inaugurated several projects, including the 60 megawatt gas-fired Independent Power Plant (IPP) at Elebele, Ogbia Local Government Area, the 630 meter Angiama – Oporoma Bridge and the new Yenagoa Town Road (1).

In his remarks, Bayelsa State Governor Douye Diri said the President’s policy interventions have created the enabling environment for the state to supply the gas-fired power plant and move closer to reliable and independent electricity supply.

”⁠Your administration’s decisive policy interventions have paved the way for significant reforms in various sectors, including energy, allowing us to deliver on our commitment to provide reliable, independent energy through the construction of these 60 megawatt gas turbines.

“For us it is a reason for thanksgiving and joy,” he said.

The governor described the project as a major step forward for Bayelsa, noting that it would improve energy supply, stimulate economic activity and improve the quality of life of residents.

He also highlighted other infrastructure projects commissioned by the President during the visit, including the 630-metre Angiama-Oporoma Bridge, which he said bridged a 6-decade connectivity gap in one of Nigeria’s major oil producing areas.

The governor added that the inauguration of a dualized road connecting the rapidly growing city of New Yenagoa will increase access, unlock economic opportunities and support the development of a modern capital city.

Diri said the projects are part of the state’s Assured Prosperity agenda, including major road corridors connecting the three senatorial districts to the Atlantic Ocean and opening up opportunities in the blue economy.

He listed other projects still in various stages of construction. Among them are a 30,000-seat international stadium, the nine-story state secretariat and roads and bridges connecting rural communities otherwise separated by water, all part of his government’s assured prosperity agenda.

The governor commended President Tinubu for approving waivers for the importation of turbines and related equipment for the power project, as well as the awarding of the second phase of the Nembe-Brass Road.

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