Minister of Works, David Umahi, has made a direct appeal to President Bola Tinubu to release additional funds for infrastructure projects across the country, urging the president to disregard critics in the process.
The appeal came during the official commissioning ceremony of the Deep Sea Port Access Road in Lagos on Thursday, where Umahi emphasized the project's endorsement by international financiers who reportedly described it as undervalued.
"I want to assure you, sir, that the international financiers have given you kudos because they say the project is even undervalued," Umahi stated during the ceremony. "Sir, don't listen to people. Give us more money; we will deliver all these projects, sir. We will deliver."
Project Complexities and Criticism
The Minister also addressed critics who have questioned the costs associated with the Deep Sea Port Access Road project. Umahi, who identified himself as a Fellow of the Society of Engineers, defended the project's valuation and implementation.
"When people gather counsel without knowledge... Your Excellency, I am a Fellow of the Society of Engineers, and I understand the figures; I understand this work," he remarked, pushing back against allegations of inflated costs and corruption.
During the event, Umahi expressed gratitude to President Tinubu for commissioning the first 30 kilometers of the project and provided assurances regarding completion timelines.
"I want to thank you for commissioning the first 30km, and I reassure you that this first section will be completed by December. We shall toll it, and Section 2 will also be close to completion. I commend the contractor very highly," he added.
The Deep Sea Port Access Road represents a significant infrastructure development for Lagos State and is expected to enhance transportation and logistics capabilities in Nigeria's commercial hub when completed.
President Tinubu has not yet publicly responded to the Minister's appeal for additional funding.
