The Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, has emphasized the need for the Federal Government to effectively communicate its infrastructure achievements to Nigerians, particularly the youth. He made this statement while receiving the leadership of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) in Abuja. During the meeting, Umahi discussed plans to mobilize social media influencers to showcase ongoing and completed federal infrastructure projects across the country.
Umahi's call for effective communication is aimed at enabling Nigerians to understand the projects being executed by the government. He stressed that if the government does not promote its achievements, others may not accurately represent them. The minister encouraged students and youth groups to visit federal projects, assess their progress, and share their observations with the public. This, he believes, will allow for independent inspections and help identify areas for improvement in infrastructure interventions.
The Minister described President Bola Tinubu as an "infrastructure President," citing ongoing construction activities across different parts of the country. He expressed confidence in the President's vision for infrastructure development and highlighted the need to promote these achievements. Umahi also disclosed plans to improve infrastructure around tertiary institutions, including the construction of pedestrian bridges and access roads.
Specifically, Umahi mentioned that requests for pedestrian bridges at the University of Abuja and Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, were being considered. The ministry also plans to explore the construction of spur roads to universities where necessary. These initiatives aim to enhance the overall infrastructure around educational institutions and promote a more conducive learning environment.
The minister provided an update on the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway project, stating that the main pavement covering 105 kilometers of the section under construction is expected to be completed by November. He expressed pride in the President's efforts to develop infrastructure and improve various sectors of the economy.
To effectively communicate the government's infrastructure achievements, Umahi plans to launch 4,000 social media influencers to promote the government's stories. He believes that this initiative will help counter misinformation on social media and provide a more accurate representation of the government's efforts. The minister urged students and youth groups to support this initiative and help share the government's infrastructure stories.
The meeting with NANS was an opportunity for the minister to engage with the youth and encourage them to take an active role in promoting the government's infrastructure achievements. By working together, the government and youth groups can effectively communicate the impact of federal infrastructure projects and promote a more informed public discourse.
Key points
- The Federal Government plans to mobilize 4,000 social media influencers to showcase its infrastructure projects.
- The Minister of Works emphasizes the need for effective communication of the government's infrastructure achievements to Nigerians.
- The government plans to improve infrastructure around tertiary institutions, including pedestrian bridges and access roads.
