Abuja: The Federal Government has refuted insinuations in certain quarters that President Bola Tinubu is being controlled by a cabal and shadowy inner circle in his government. The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, denied this in Abuja while delivering an address at the APC National Summit with the theme ‘Renewed Hope Agenda: The Journey So Far.’
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the minister stated that the President welcomes a wide range of perspectives and makes informed decisions solely in the best interest of Nigeria. Idris emphasized that while people can voice their opinions, the final decision rests with the President himself.
Speaking on the theme of the summit, Idris noted that President Tinubu is committed to transforming Nigeria through the Renewed Hope Agenda, which aims to turn challenges into opportunities. This agenda is designed to positively impact the lives of Nigerians through decisive actions that unleash the country’s full potential.
The minister recalled that Tinubu inherited a nation at a crossroads and moved swiftly with decisive actions. Among the first of these were the removal of petrol and foreign exchange subsidies, which were seen as significant obstacles to Nigeria’s progress.
Idris highlighted the outcomes of the president’s reforms, which include advancements in infrastructure, social investment programs, and the revamping of the mining and petroleum sectors. Notable infrastructure projects include four signature highways that total over 2,600km, linking various communities and economies.
Additionally, the administration has prioritized the Kano-Kaduna Standard Gauge Railway as part of the Lagos-Kano railway modernization plan. In the housing sector, the Renewed Hope Cities and Estates Projects aim to address the housing deficit while creating jobs and rejuvenating urban areas.
To support the digital economy, the Federal Government has deployed 90,000km of fiber optic cable across the nation, aiming to bridge the digital divide and attract investments. Education and consumer credit schemes have also been launched, benefiting thousands of students and workers.
In terms of security, significant progress has been made with the neutralization and arrest of terrorists and bandits, and the rescue of hostages. The acquisition of new aircraft and naval vessels underscores the commitment to national security.
Idris commended the establishment of the Ministry of Livestock Development and Regional Development Commissions, emphasizing that the Renewed Hope Agenda is holistic and centered on the people.