According to Daily Post Nigeria, Minister of Works, Engr. David Umahi, has responded forcefully to critics of the reforms being undertaken by President Bola Tinubu, accusing them of being driven by envy and presenting themselves as enemies of Nigeria.
The minister made these comments on the sidelines of an investigative public hearing held by the Senate Committee on Works in Abuja on Friday, where he reaffirmed his support for the President’s economic and infrastructural reforms.
Speaking to reporters, Umahi addressed the growing wave of criticism surrounding President Tinubu’s reform agenda, stating that those opposing the changes were merely acting out of jealousy.
According to the minister, such detractors should be viewed as “enemies of Nigeria,” given that their criticisms are impeding the country’s progress.
“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 but to perform,” Umahi stated emphatically.
He continued by praising President Tinubu’s commitment to transforming the nation, despite the challenges posed by opposition and skepticism from certain quarters.
Umahi also stressed that President Tinubu’s reforms are not being carried out in isolation but with the full collaboration of those in charge of the various sectors of the economy.
He assured that these reforms would ultimately reposition Nigeria’s economy for the better in due time, as the key players in the nation’s governance are working together to ensure their successful implementation.
“We understand the reform. All those heading various sectors of the economy are working towards actualizing it,” Umahi said.
He expressed confidence that these changes would bring positive results, dispelling doubts about their efficacy.
The minister also responded to the controversy surrounding the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Road project, a key part of President Tinubu’s infrastructural plans.
Critics of the project have raised concerns, but Umahi was quick to dismiss these criticisms, labeling them as “borne out of envy and jealousy.”
He urged those skeptical of the project to take a closer look at its potential benefits to the country, stating that it would act as a catalyst for the growth of all states in Nigeria.
“It’s very rare for a president to agree to continue the whole project of his predecessor,” Umahi pointed out, acknowledging the significance of President Tinubu’s decision to carry forward this ambitious infrastructural plan, which has long been seen as vital for Nigeria’s economic development.
Despite criticism from some quarters, Umahi remained optimistic about the success of President Tinubu’s vision.
He asserted that once people overcome their suspicions and critically examine the Lagos-Calabar coastal road project, they would recognize its potential as a transformative force for the nation’s economy.
“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,” Umahi concluded.