President Bola Tinubu has reassured Nigerians that the “Renewed Hope” agenda, though challenging, will soon deliver positive results for the country.
The President’s message of optimism came during the funeral service of Chief Michael Adeniyi Koleosho, the former Secretary to the Oyo State Government. The event took place on Saturday at Ajegunle Baptist Church in Saki, Oyo State.
Speaking through Zaccheus Adedeji, Executive Chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service, Tinubu stressed that his administration is focused on connecting Nigeria through vital infrastructure projects. He emphasized that these projects would bring the country closer to achieving national unity and economic progress.
In his remarks, President Tinubu highlighted the Lagos-Calabar coastal highway as a flagship initiative under his administration. He explained that this project will not only improve transportation but also stimulate economic activity across different regions of Nigeria.
“This project is just the beginning,” Tinubu said. “We are committed to laying down a framework that connects every part of Nigeria.”
The President expressed his desire to ensure that no region is left behind in the development process. He said, “Our goal is to ensure that every part of Nigeria is connected through infrastructure, which will ultimately benefit all Nigerians. It may take time and effort, but I assure you that the fruits of our labour will soon be evident in every part of Nigeria.”
Tinubu’s emphasis on infrastructure reflects his broader vision of using development projects to unite the country. According to the President, well-planned infrastructure is key to fostering national integration and creating opportunities for all Nigerians.
“My aim is to connect the country through infrastructure,” he said. “This will yield profits for everyone and bring us closer together as a nation.”
His comments come at a time when Nigeria is facing significant challenges, including economic hardship and regional tensions. The President’s speech aimed to reassure Nigerians that despite the difficulties they are experiencing, the government is committed to delivering long-term benefits.
President Tinubu also paid tribute to the late Chief Michael Adeniyi Koleosho, describing him as a man of humility and hard work. Koleosho, who served as Secretary to the Oyo State Government, had a profound influence on Tinubu’s approach to governance, particularly in the area of infrastructure development.
“Chief Koleosho was a man of vision,” Tinubu said. “His dedication to public service and his insights have greatly influenced my approach to governance.”
He pledged to honour Koleosho’s memory by continuing to work towards a better Nigeria. “We will ensure that his legacy lives on through our commitment to building a better Nigeria,” the President added.
Tinubu noted that Koleosho’s values of hard work and service should inspire all Nigerians. “His humility and dedication to hard work are qualities we must all aspire to emulate,” he said.
Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde also paid glowing tribute to the late Chief Koleosho, calling on political leaders to follow the elder statesman’s example by practicing a “politics of development.”
Governor Makinde urged politicians to focus on initiatives that improve the welfare of the people. “We must imbibe the politics of development practiced by elder statesman, Chief Michael Adeniyi Koleosho,” he said.
Makinde emphasized the need for cooperation among political factions, stating that collective efforts are necessary to realize the dreams of leaders like Koleosho. “In unity, we can achieve more for our people,” he remarked.
Makinde also spoke about the late Koleosho’s contributions to the growth of Saki and Oyo State as a whole. To honour his memory, the governor announced his intention to sign a bill next week to rename Oke-Ogun Polytechnic after Chief Koleosho.
“Renaming this institution is not just an honour; it is a commitment to continuing his legacy of education and empowerment,” Makinde said.
Additionally, Governor Makinde revealed plans to rename a major township road in Saki after Chief Koleosho. He also announced several infrastructure projects, including the rehabilitation of the Saki-Ogboro-Igboho road and the refurbishment of technical colleges in Ibadan and Saki.
“These actions are steps towards a brighter future for our communities,” Makinde added.
President Tinubu’s focus on infrastructure extends beyond roads and bridges. In his speech, he mentioned the National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA) as a critical part of his vision for a more integrated and technologically advanced Nigeria.
NASRDA, established to promote space science and technology, is an example of the kind of long-term projects Tinubu believes will shape the future of the country.
“The foundation we are laying with infrastructure is broad,” Tinubu said. “It includes everything from roads to space technology. We are determined to take Nigeria to the next level.”
