Minister of Works, Engr. David Umahi, has accused those criticizing the reforms of President Bola Tinubu of acting out of jealousy and suggested they should be considered enemies of Nigeria.
He expressed confidence that the reforms being implemented under President Tinubu’s leadership will significantly benefit the economy in the near future.
Umahi made the comments on Friday during an investigative public hearing by the Senate Committee on Works in Abuja.
He assured that the reform initiatives are well-understood by the heads of various sectors and that all relevant parties are committed to achieving its goals.
Regarding the controversy surrounding the Lagos-Calabar coastal project, Umahi dismissed the criticism as stemming from envy and jealousy. He highlighted that President Tinubu has long harbored a vision for improving Nigeria, a goal he pursued as a governor for 25 years. Umahi emphasized that with the opportunity to serve as president, Tinubu is determined to fulfill his dream for the nation, underscoring that it is rare for a president to continue a project started by their predecessor, according to Daily Post.
Umahi also expressed confidence in the positive impact of the current administration, noting that critics had underestimated Tinubu’s ability to deliver results in a short period. He urged people to look beyond their suspicions and fully understand the significance of the coastal road project, describing it as a key driver for the growth of all states in Nigeria.
Additionally, Umahi explained that the diversion of the road at the 16-kilometer mark was necessary to accommodate the African communication cable that runs through the ocean. The road was subsequently reconnected at kilometer 26 to prevent complications encountered during previous projects.
Speaking on the controversy surrounding the Lagos – Calabar coastal project, Umahi said the criticism is “borne out of envy and jealousy”.
“Mr. President had this dream of making Nigeria better for the past 25 years as a governor and now God has given him the opportunity to serve the country and to actualize his dream so he has no choice than to perform”
“It’s very rare for a president to agree to continue the whole project of his predecessor,” he said.
Umahi maintained that “when people stop this suspicion character and digest the coastal road project very well, then they will know it’s a catalyst for the growth of every state in this country.”