Nigeria's Minister of Works, David Umahi, has revealed that the Federal Government plans to engage 4,000 social media influencers to showcase President Bola Tinubu's achievements and educate Nigerians about the administration's projects and policies. This announcement was made in Abuja after receiving a report from the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) following their inspection of federal road projects in Kano, Jigawa, Kaduna, and Sokoto states. The move aims to enable the government to take its message directly to Nigerians, particularly young people, as the 2027 general elections approach.
Minister Umahi emphasized the importance of confronting criticism and opposition on social media, expressing pride in President Tinubu's efforts to develop the country's infrastructure. He highlighted the need for the government to tell its own story, saying, "If you don't say 'I am', nobody will tell you who you are." The planned influencers network is part of the government's strategy to engage with citizens and promote its achievements. This initiative is expected to provide a platform for the government to share its successes and address concerns.
The Minister of Works also commended the students' assessment tour, which exposed infrastructure needs around tertiary institutions and identified areas requiring further development. The tour helped the government understand the concerns of students and the impact of its projects on their lives. This exercise demonstrated the value of engaging with citizens and tracking the progress of government projects. By doing so, the government can ensure that its efforts align with the needs of the people.
During the exercise, NANS raised concerns about the need for pedestrian bridges around university campuses. Minister Umahi disclosed that the government is considering this request, instructing his directors to take note of it. The proposed pedestrian bridges aim to enhance safety and accessibility for students and staff. This move demonstrates the government's commitment to addressing the concerns of citizens and improving the overall learning environment.
However, Minister Umahi expressed concerns about vandalism along the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway, which is currently under construction. Vandals have been damaging the project by driving vehicles through construction camps and removing essential materials, including iron rods, block walls, and covers. The Minister emphasized that this is unacceptable and called on Nigerians to protect public infrastructure. He assured citizens that the government would continue to engage with them to track the progress of its projects.
The Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway project is a significant infrastructure development initiative, with a 105-kilometer pavement section expected to be completed by November. The Minister urged Nigerians to emulate the leadership demonstrated by the students, who took the initiative to inspect federal road projects and provide feedback. By working together, the government and citizens can ensure the success of infrastructure projects and promote national development.
Minister Umahi's announcement has sparked conversations on social media, with many Nigerians reacting to the plan to engage 4,000 social media influencers. The government's move is seen as an effort to promote its achievements and engage with citizens, particularly young people. As the 2027 general elections approach, the government's strategy to showcase its achievements and address concerns is expected to gain momentum. The success of this initiative will depend on the government's ability to effectively engage with citizens and promote its projects in a transparent and accountable manner.
Key points
- The Nigerian government plans to engage 4,000 social media influencers to showcase President Tinubu's achievements and educate Nigerians about government projects and policies.
