Tinubu’s aide reaffirms president’s unyielding commitment to Nigeria’s development

The Personal Assistant to President Bola Tinubu on Constituency Affairs, Khadijat Omotayo Kareem, has reaffirmed the President’s unwavering dedication to Nigeria’s development.

Speaking at a town hall meeting with critical stakeholders in Lagos State on Monday, held at the Lagos State Television premises, Kareem stated that President Tinubu is working tirelessly to address the country’s challenges.

She noted that similar meetings have been held in other constituencies nationwide to identify pressing issues and relay them to the President for resolution.

“These meetings provide a platform to deliberate on constituency-specific challenges and ensure the President is informed to find appropriate solutions,” Kareem explained.

She emphasised the President’s recognition of Lagos as Nigeria’s commercial hub, underlining his commitment to completing federal projects in the state and investing in infrastructure nationwide.

“President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is focused on addressing Nigeria’s challenges, with special attention to Lagos State. He is committed to supporting projects that will improve the quality of life for Lagosians and meet the needs of all constituencies. He will not rest until Nigerians experience renewed hope,” she said.

Kareem assured stakeholders that their concerns and recommendations would be presented to the President, promising equitable attention to all constituencies.

Funmi Sesi, Chairman of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) Lagos Chapter, called for Lagos to be granted special status by the Federal Government, citing its unique burden as home to Nigerians from across the country.

“Lagos bears significant financial strain in providing public infrastructure. The Federal Government should also embark on a massive housing scheme, build specialised hospitals, and hand over abandoned federal properties in the state to the government,” Sesi said.

She further urged investment in agriculture, a robust food bank initiative, and improvements in Lagos’ transportation systems.

Gbenga Ekundayo, President of the Trade Union Congress (TUC), Lagos Chapter, highlighted the economic strain caused by recent government policies.

While praising the Renewed Hope Housing Scheme, he called on the President to review policies affecting Nigerians’ purchasing power and to address the extravagant lifestyles of political appointees.

“The President must win the youth’s support through initiatives like sports and take immediate action to address the lifestyle of political appointees, which sends the wrong signal to Nigerians,” Ekundayo added.

Bisola Azeez, representing Iyaloja-General Folasade Tinubu-Ojo, raised concerns about traders’ lack of access to federal loans due to stringent requirements.

“Many traders are unable to secure loans to augment their working capital. The Federal Government should simplify access to loans for genuine traders,” Azeez urged.

Activist Rasaq Olokooba, founder of the Coalition of Oodua Self-Determination Group, called for urgent action on state policing, stressing the need to address insecurity, particularly in Yoruba farmland areas.

“Our farmers cannot access their farms due to security issues. Yoruba land security must be prioritised, and Lagos deserves a special status because of its massive population,” he said.

Other stakeholders expressed concerns about political appointees abandoning their constituencies post-election. They called on the President to ensure appointees live within their constituencies to remain connected to the people they represent.